(Image Source: BCCI)
[Saba Sports News] Hardik Pandya, a key figure in Mumbai Indians’ past successes, might return to the team in IPL 2024. Discussions are ongoing between Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Pandya himself, as Mumbai is keen to reacquire the all-rounder who was released in 2021.
Pandya, as Gujarat Titans’ captain since their inclusion in the league, has been impressive, winning the 2022 championship and leading the team to the IPL 2023 finals as runners-up.
Mumbai Indians are considering handing over the captaincy to Pandya, potentially starting from 2025. Although Rohit Sharma will continue to lead in 2024, plans for Pandya’s future leadership role are in the pipeline. In the ongoing negotiations, Gujarat Titans have expressed interest in either Rohit Sharma or Jofra Archer in exchange for Pandya.
While Sharma’s departure from Mumbai is highly unlikely, Archer could be a feasible option for Gujarat if the trade proceeds.
The trading window is set to close on November 26. Amidst these developments, Gujarat Titans have been thriving under Pandya’s leadership, forming a successful partnership with coach Ashish Nehra. This success casts doubt on the likelihood of Gujarat agreeing to a trade, especially for an injury-prone Archer. If Pandya does depart, Rashid Khan or Kane Williamson might step up as potential captains for Gujarat.