Using Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya gave a befitting reply to the critics, saying – This is not my strategy, but the game’s strategy.

News India Live, Digital Desk: Captain Hardik Pandya has broken his silence on the criticism regarding the performance of Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026 and especially the use of star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Hardik has given a clear message to the critics that not giving the new ball to Bumrah or bringing him to bowl late is not a personal decision, but is part of the team’s well-thought-out strategy. Recently, on the controversies that arose after the match against Gujarat Titans, Hardik said that Bumrah is used considering the situation of the match and the danger of the opposition batsmen. Defense of Hardik Pandya: ‘Not a Hardik Pandya problem’ Critics believe that Bumrah Like not bringing the world’s best bowler into the attack in the initial overs is costing heavily for Mumbai. On this, Hardik said: Part of the strategy: Hardik argued that it is necessary to save Bumrah for the ‘middle overs’ and ‘death overs’ so that pressure can be put on the opposition team at the crucial juncture of the match. Flexibility: The captain said, “This is not Hardik Pandya’s problem, it is the demand of the game. We always want to use Bumrah where he is most effective. Sometimes we need swing with the new ball, sometimes in the death overs. Yorker.” Citing statistics: Hardik also indicated that changes in bowling are made only on the basis of suggestions from the team management and data analysts. Jasprit Bumrah’s performance in IPL 2026 (so far) Even though questions are being raised on his usage, Bumrah’s bowling still remains lethal: In the last match: Against Gujarat Titans, he took 1 wicket for just 15 runs in 3 overs. (Economy 5.00).Season graph: Bumrah has maintained his economy rate below 7 this season, which is extraordinary in T20 cricket.Expert OpinionA section of former cricketers and commentators still disagree with Hardik’s decision. He believes that if Bumrah does not take wickets in the beginning, then the opposition team will score a big score, due to which later Bumrah’s overs will be limited only to stopping the pace of runs. Upcoming match: Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings Mumbai Indians is going to play its next match at Wankhede Stadium. It will be interesting to see whether Hardik changes his strategy and hands the new ball to Bumrah or sticks to his current plan.