RR vs MI IPL 2024: Aaron Finch Puts Focus On Hardik Pandya & Yashasvi Jaiswal

Ahead of the anticipated clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on April 22nd, former Australian captain Aaron Finch turned the spotlight onto Hardik Pandya and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Pandya, returning to competitive cricket in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) after a left ankle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup, had a tumultuous journey. Initially leading Gujarat Titans for two seasons, Pandya was later appointed as Mumbai Indians' captain, succeeding the five-time championship-winning Rohit Sharma. Despite his decorated career, Pandya's IPL 2024 performances were far from impressive. His batting yielded a mere 141 runs from seven innings, with an average of 23.50 and a strike rate of 146.88. His bowling stats were equally underwhelming, managing only four wickets at an average of 41.25, coupled with an economy rate of 11. Criticisms also arose regarding some of his captaincy decisions during matches.

On the other hand, Yashasvi Jaiswal, known for his stellar performances for Rajasthan Royals in the previous season, transitioned seamlessly into international cricket. His Test series against England saw him amass remarkable scores, including a couple of double centuries. However, in the ongoing 17th edition of the IPL, Jaiswal's form dwindled. With only 121 runs from seven games at an average of 17.29, his highest score remained a modest 39. As the cricketing world eagerly awaited the RR vs. MI encounter, all eyes were on Pandya and Jaiswal, hoping for a resurgence in their fortunes on the field.

"I have got my eye on two people for this match. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Hardik Pandya. They are two guys that haven't been in the best form throughout this IPL so far. There is a little bit of pressure building on both of them and I think that's why the spotlight is on them. Yes, there's a T20 World Cup coming up very soon," Aaron Finch told Star Sports.

"So, they will want to be in great form, one, to be picked, and two, if they are there, to be in really good form to contribute to India having a real crack at trying to win another T20 World Cup. So, that's who's on my radar today. Look forward to what should be a cracking game," the cricketer-turned-commentator added.

Speculations are rife as reports circulate about the impending meeting between Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector of BCCI, and the Indian cricket team's skipper, Rohit Sharma. The agenda? Nothing less than finalizing the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Sources suggest that the much-anticipated announcement of the squad is imminent, scheduled to unfold after the conclusion of the IPL 2024 clash between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals.

With the stakes high, star players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Hardik Pandya are poised to make a statement on Monday, April 22. Their performances in this crucial fixture could very well determine their fate in securing spots for the prestigious event. The T20 World Cup is set to grace the cricketing landscape in the vibrant arenas of West Indies and the United States of America.