Grind mode on! Hardik Pandya sweats it out in the gym ahead of the PBKS clash

Hardik Pandya, the Indian all-rounder and the current captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, was recently seen putting in some intense hours at the gym, as he prepares for the upcoming clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 15, 2023. The image of him working out was shared on social media with the caption "Grind mode on!"

Hardik took over the leadership role from Rohit Sharma, who stepped down as MI captain due to personal reasons earlier this season. Under his leadership, MI has managed to secure victories in only two out of the six matches they have played so far. The team's performance has been inconsistent, with losses against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) adding to the pressure on Hardik and the team.

MI's poor form comes as a surprise, as they are considered one of the strongest teams in the IPL with a star-studded lineup that includes players like Saurabh Tiwary, Ishan Kishan, Kieron Pollard, and Jasprit Bumrah, among others. The team's batting and bowling departments have both underperformed, with the batsmen failing to put up a decent total and the bowlers struggling to defend low scores.

Hardik himself has not been at his best with the bat, managing only 81 runs in six innings at an average of 13.50. However, he has shown glimpses of his all-round abilities with a crucial cameo of 21 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) that helped MI secure a narrow victory.

With the mid-season auction coming up and the team's position in the points table looking uncertain, the upcoming match against PBKS is a must-win for MI if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive. Hardik's leadership and performance will be crucial in turning things around for his team. The intense workout sessions at the gym are a clear indication that he is leaving no stone unturned to prepare for the challenge ahead.

In conclusion, Hardik Pandya's leadership and form have been under scrutiny as MI struggle to find their rhythm in IPL 2023. With only two wins from six games, the team is under pressure to perform and qualify for the playoffs. Hardik's recent gym session is a testament to his determination to lead his team to victory against PBKS and turn around their fortunes in the tournament.