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Naman Dhir Spills Tea On Hardik Pandya And Pollard's Role Behind His IPL Performance

Soumyajit Dutta

Hardik Pandya and Naman Dhir [Source: iplt20.com]Hardik Pandya and Naman Dhir [Source: iplt20.com]

Naman Dhir has carved a niche as Mumbai Indians’ (MI) dependable lower-middle-order batter this season, amassing 130 runs across six matches at an average of 43.33 and a blistering strike rate of 185.71. 

The 25-year-old’s standout performance came against Lucknow Super Giants, where he stepped up to No. 3 in Rohit Sharma’s absence, smashing 46 off 26 balls. 

Naman Dhir Admits Pandya & Pollard's Big Help!

Notably, as per him, Naman's composure in high-pressure situations has been shaped by skipper Hardik Pandya and batting coach Kieron Pollard, whose mentorship has sharpened his decision-making during crunch moments.

Naman Dhir, retained by MI after scoring 140 runs in seven games last season, attributes his growth to the team’s clarity around his role.

“Right after the auction, (Mahela Jayawardene) MJ told me I’d be batting at 6 or 7, so I’ve been mentally preparing for that role ever since,” Dhir revealed ahead of MI’s clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"When it comes to guys like Pollard and Hardik, they're always in my ear, constantly guiding me. The biggest thing they've helped me with is staying calm under pressure. I'm learning what shots to play and when - all from their experience," Naman added.

MI’s management has encouraged Dhir to play fearlessly while avoiding recklessness admitted the young batter.

“The management has been clear—they’ve said, ‘We’ve got your back. Just go out there, express yourself, and play your game.’ But there’s a fine line between playing fearlessly and being reckless. That’s the balance I’m trying to maintain,” he added.

Currently seventh with four points, MI revived their IPL 2025 campaign with a 12-run win over Delhi Capitals. Dhir’s adaptability and calculated aggression remain pivotal as the team eyes a playoff push with a cinematic comeback.