Close to 40 average with SR of 147 isn't bad IMO but yeah I don't remember him impacting a match singlehandedly with the bat. The only inning I can remember is his ton along with Sai Sudharsan.
AT Motera, the booing was only reserved for Hardik and Gill is new with his captaincy gig so not sure if spectators were going to boo him in any scenario, also he has a reputation.
Ha! Well, not updated with the drama so can't add anything on Hardik leaving or not.
The average you quoted is his overall batting performance in IPL and not particularly in this season. He got only one ton like others namely Rohit, Jaiswal and I am forgetting another name. His batting timing and shot selection has suddenly gone bad to worse. Not sure that the limelight made it more bad or he is out of his best form. For Jaiswal I am certain that the attention from media and his sudden financial gain migs is an issue.
I doubt Hardik will be having good days if he keeps performing in the same manner in the upcoming T20WC. Already he is getting more hate after becoming the captain of MI from the fans and from the critics of cricket. The upcoming ICC event might be his last chance to shine or he needs to again find a Godfather who can help him in his career.
His IPL career average is 37-ish with SR of 135-ish and this season he's averaging 38-ish with SR of 147-ish so I am positive.
Yes, Hardik had a bad run but I still think he's a clutch player and an asset for the Indian white ball team. If we had his replacement then sure, your argument stands true but as of now, we have virtually no experienced seam bowling all-rounder in the white ball.