Aoba Tanaka 
Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is gearing up to mark a significant milestone as he prepares to play his 100th game for Mumbai Indians (MI) in a highly anticipated clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Monday. In what promises to be an enthralling encounter between two formidable batting powerhouses, RR will host MI for the second time in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.
The Royals are riding high on confidence after a stunning two-wicket victory against Kolkata Knight Riders in their previous game. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians secured a hard-fought nine-run win over Punjab Kings in their last outing at Mohali, showcasing their resilience under pressure.
With Rajasthan Royals leading the IPL 2024 standings with 12 points and a commendable net run rate of 0.677, having won six out of their seven matches, they are set to pose a tough challenge for Mumbai Indians. Meanwhile, MI, currently sixth in the IPL standings with six points from seven games, will be looking to climb up the ladder with a crucial victory.
For Hardik Pandya, this game holds special significance as he reaches a remarkable milestone of 100 appearances for Mumbai Indians. Having returned to the Blue and Gold franchise this season after a successful stint with Gujarat Titans, Pandya’s contribution to MI’s success over the years has been invaluable. His stellar performances played a pivotal role in Mumbai Indians clinching championship titles in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.
Reflecting on his illustrious career with MI, Pandya has amassed 1,617 runs in 99 matches at an impressive average of 26.95 and a strike rate of 153.27, complemented by 46 wickets. Additionally, his stint with Gujarat Titans saw him score 833 runs in 31 matches, further solidifying his reputation as a dynamic all-rounder in the IPL.
Despite a relatively subdued performance in the ongoing season, Pandya’s return to MI has been met with high expectations from fans and teammates alike. With 141 runs and four wickets in seven matches so far, Pandya will be eager to make his 100th appearance a memorable one by delivering a match-winning performance against Rajasthan Royals.
As both teams gear up for a thrilling showdown, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing Hardik Pandya’s milestone moment and the electrifying clash between Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals.
