Tag: Eliminated

The Mumbai Indians’ dismal IPL 2024 campaign has reached its nadir, with the five-time champions becoming the first team to be eliminated from playoff contention. Despite having two matches remaining, the Hardik Pandya-led side’s fate was sealed on Wednesday when SunRisers Hyderabad defeated Lucknow Super Giants.

The Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals have already secured 16 points each, occupying the top spots in the IPL 2024 points table. SRH’s 10-wicket victory over LSG propelled them to 14 points, leaving Mumbai Indians with an insurmountable deficit.

With only 8 points from 12 games, the Mumbai Indians cannot overtake any of the three teams ahead of them. Even if they win their remaining two matches, they can only reach a maximum of 12 points.

Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants, both on 12 points, will face off in the 64th match of IPL 2024. This ensures that one of these teams will finish with more than 12 points, further eliminating Mumbai Indians’ playoff hopes.

Hardik Pandya has remained pragmatic about his team’s chances, stating that he is not getting carried away by mathematical possibilities. “I don’t know which mathematical situation we’re talking about, but at the same time, you want to focus on playing good cricket,” Pandya said.

Despite their elimination, Pandya praised his team’s performance in their recent victory over Punjab Kings. He highlighted the batting prowess of Suryakumar Yadav, who has been a standout performer for Mumbai Indians this season.

“The way our batters batted, that was excellent. My bowling, I like to bowl in the right areas, I bowl according to the situation. Bowled in the right areas today and it worked,” Pandya said.

“It’s unbelievable, the best past of SKY is that he puts the bowlers under pressure. It’s sheer confidence, his game has changed, is one of the best batters. He can change a game in a different way, lucky to have him (SKY) in our side,” Pandya added.