When the first news rumored of Hardik Pandya returning to his previous franchise Mumbai Indians in an all-cash deal, the IPL world went crazy. All cricket fans were surprised to see this news, most of the cricket analysts did not believe it as a true news. Everyone were surprised to think on how could Hardik Pandya, being a captain leave his home team Gujarat Titans.
From 2015 to 2021, the talented all-round player played for MI in the Indian Premier League, where he helped the team win four titles. But due to his injury concerns and poor performance in IPL 2021, Mumbai Indians did not retain him for IPL 2022. He was then bought in the drafts by Gujarat Titans who made him the Captain of their team.
In his first season as Captain in 2022, Hardik Pandya led Gujarat Titans to win the IPL Title. In 2023 as well Gujarat Titans finished runner ups to CSK by a very short margin. Notably in both IPL 2022 and 2023, Gujarat Titans finished at the top of the table during the league stage under Hardik’s leadership.
Ashish Nehra opens up on Hardik Pandya’s trade to Mumbai Indians
In an interview on JioCinema, Gujarat Titans’ Head Coach Ashish Nehra said that Hardik showed his desire to go back to Mumbai Indians. He also admitted it is nearly impossible to get a player of Hardik’s caliber. It will be difficult to make up for somebody like Hardik but expressed delight with the players GT have bought in IPL 2024 Auction.
“Hardik Pandya has not gone back to a team that has caused a huge surprise,” Ashish Nehra said. “He played for that team for so many years, he showed his desire to go back there. Our management’s nature is such that, we think if a player wants to go there, right,” said Ashish Nehra.
“He should be happy and that’s why he has gone there again. Replacing someone like Hardik Pandya is difficult, but we tried our best,” he added.
Also Read: IPL 2024: “I Don’t Think Hardik Pandya As A Captain Is A Finished Product Yet” – Aakash Chopra