Gujarat, Ap 6: On a recent day off from leading Mumbai in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Hardik Pandya, the team's captain, embarked on a personal journey to the renowned Somnath Temple in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat. This sacred site, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds profound significance in Hinduism.
Captured on video, Pandya adorned traditional attire as he engaged in rituals, performing puja, and offering prayers in the tranquil surroundings of the temple. His visit provided a serene escape from the frenetic pace of cricket matches and the constant glare of media attention. The Somnath Temple, revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, draws devotees from around the globe, underscoring its historical and spiritual importance.
However, Pandya's respite at the temple contrasts sharply with the challenges he faces in IPL 2024. Despite assuming leadership from Rohit Sharma, the five-time champions' transition has been arduous for Pandya. While he enjoyed success as captain of the Gujarat team, Mumbai's fortunes have waned.
Struggling at the bottom of the table, Mumbai suffered defeats in all three of their matches. Their campaign commenced with a narrow loss to Gujarat at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, followed by conceding the highest-ever IPL team total to Hyderabad.
In their latest encounter on April 1, Mumbai succumbed to Rajasthan led by Sanju Samson, losing by six wickets. Their batting line-up faltered early on, failing to recover from the initial setbacks despite Akash Madhwal's early breakthroughs. Riyan Parag steered Rajasthan to victory, leaving Mumbai reeling.
With a maiden victory eluding them, Mumbai's hopes rest on the upcoming match against Rishabh Pant's Delhi on Sunday, April 7, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
