Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa asserted that Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya was dealing with mental health issues, attributing them to persistent booing during IPL 2024 matches.
Following Rohit Sharma's departure, Pandya's appointment as captain faced fan backlash, subjecting him to a hostile stadium atmosphere.
Uthappa emphasised Pandya's potential to become an Indian cricket legend, condemning the criticism and online harassment affecting him deeply.
"He possesses the skills and potential to be among India's greatest cricketers. Starting with his departure from his initial team, then moving to another franchise, winning titles there, only to face backlash. Joining GT, winning, and being runners-up stirred the conversation," Uthappa remarked.
"The relentless mocking, trolling, and fitness memes, do they not affect him? Of course, they do. It wounds any individual. How many truly understand the gravity of it? Hardik is indeed grappling with mental health issues," he added.
Uthappa maintained: "As a society, we must realise the inappropriateness of subjecting anyone to such treatment. It's not acceptable to laugh or propagate these memes."
Amidst MI's struggles, having won three out of seven matches this season, ranking seventh in the IPL points table with minimal playoff prospects, the five-time champions face challenges in maintaining consistency.
