Hardik Pandya has experienced everything in the past seven months—highs, lows, criticism, and redemption. His return to Mumbai Indians was far from smooth. When he replaced Rohit Sharma as MI captain, he was met with loud boos at the Wankhede Stadium. The situation only got worse when MI finished last in IPL 2024, making it a tough phase for the all-rounder. However, Pandya did not let the setbacks define him. Instead, he bounced back in the best way possible—by delivering in crucial moments for India. He played a key role in helping the team win both the ICC T20 World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy, proving his doubters wrong. In the T20 World Cup final, he took the all-important wicket of Heinrich Klaasen, a moment that turned the game in India’s favour. He continued his brilliant form in the Champions Trophy, scoring 99 runs and picking up four wickets. Also Read: IPL 2025: BCCI Considers Lifting Saliva Ban, Captains to Decide After guiding India to two major titles in just seven months, Pandya is now set to lead Mumbai Indians again in IPL 2025. This time, he will look to change the narrative. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif spoke about Pandya’s comeback and praised his ability to stay strong despite all the negativity. Kaif shared a heartfelt video on social media, where he spoke about how Pandya dealt with the tough times. "He kept that pain to himself and went forward, and that has been Hardik Pandya's comeback story. It was a bad journey. Fans booed him, and people wrote him off. A player never forgets that. You can drop him, but being insulted wasn't a good sign. It turns out to be mental torture for the player. Mental torture—that is what happened to Hardik," Kaif said. 'He fought like a lion' Kaif further praised Pandya for his performances under pressure. He pointed out how he backed his strength and came back stronger. "Despite all the torture he had faced, he played in the T20 World Cup, where he dismissed Heinrich Klaasen in the final. Then, in the Champions Trophy, he scored sixes against Zampa. He performed with the bat and ball, fighting fiercely like a lion," he said. He further added: "If there is ever a biopic on him, then the last seven months should be an example for players of how to fight against all odds, stay calm, trust your strengths and make a comeback". Mumbai Indians will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 23 in Chennai. However, Pandya will miss the opening match due to a one-match ban for a slow over-rate in IPL 2024’s final game. In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team.