Mumbai: Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya was traded from Gujarat Titian to record-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the forthcoming edition of the IPL, in an all-cash deal on Sunday.
“We are thrilled to welcome Hardik back home! It’s a heartwarming reunion with our Mumbai Indians family! From being a young scouted talent of Mumbai Indians to now being a team India star, Hardik has come a long way and we’re excited for what the future holds for him and Mumbai Indians!” said Nita M Ambani, co-owner of the franchise.
Akash Ambani, said, “Seeing Hardik back at Mumbai Indians makes me very happy. It is a happy homecoming. He provides great balance to any team he plays. Hardik’s first stint with the MI family was hugely successful, and we hope he achieves even more success in his second stint.”
The confirmation came hours after the IPL retention window closed on November 26. The MI traded Cameron Green, previously acquired for Rs 17.5 crore, to Royal Challengers Bangalore for the necessary funds for Pandya’s acquisition. Pandya’s reported fee from his tenure with Gujarat Titans was Rs 15 crore, according to The Mint.
“Yes, Hardik’s trade off got completed after 5 pm. The deal is now formalised and he is a MI player. It’s been a tripartite all cash deal. MI have traded their all-rounder Cameron Green to RCB in an all cash deal. After that they had requisite funds to settle an all-cash deal with Gujarat Titans and procure Hardik’s services,” a senior BCCI official and IPL Governing Council member told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
Pandya was signed by MI as an uncapped player for Rs 10 lakh in 2015 and played a key role in MI’s four triumphs in the IPL between 2015 to 2021, when was released by the franchise ahead of the 2022 season after injuries derailed his career. He then made his captaincy debut with Gujarat Titans and also won the title. Gujarat Titans were runners-up in 2023 edition of the IPL.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans has named Shubman Gill as the captain of team. “Shubman Gill has shown growth in stature and standing over the last two years at the highest level of the game. We’ve seen him mature not only as a batter but also as a leader in cricket. His contribution on the field has helped Gujarat Titans emerge as a formidable force, guiding the team through a successful campaign in 2022 and a strong run in 2023. His maturity and skill is evident in his on-field performance and we are extremely excited to embark on a new journey with a young leader like Shubman at the helm,” Vikram Solanki, Director of Cricket, Gujarat Titans, said.
