A day after he was retained by Gujarat Titans, Hardik Pandya’s impending move to Mumbai Indians was formalised on November 27. While the allrounder returned to his Indian Premier League (IPL) alma mater, the five-times champion side let go of Cameron Green to Royal Challengers Bangalore in a bid to create a substantial purse ahead of the next month’s player auction.
An IPL statement on Monday afternoon confirmed both the transfers. Minutes later, Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans commented on the trades.
Wishing Hardik “the very best”, Gujarat Titans director of cricket Vikram Solanki stated the franchise “respected” Hardik’s “desire to return to his original team”.
Akash Ambani, the Mumbai Indians team owner, termed the move as “happy homecoming”. “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,” he said.
Hardik’s transfer resulted in Mumbai Indians’ kitty reducing by Rs. 15 crore, his official contract fees. However, it is understood that an undisclosed amount higher than the contract fees has been agreed between the parties. With the IPL rules allowing additional payment, the additional amount will be divided equally between Hardik and Gujarat Titans.
Green, who justified his price tag of being Mumbai Indians’ most expensive buy at Rs. 17.50 crore in the last auction, had to be let go as a result with RCB strengthening its batting firepower.
Green’s move resulted in Mumbai Indians’ auction purse increasing to Rs. 17.75 crore while RCB has Rs. 23.25 crore at the moment for the December 19 auction. The trading window will remain open till December 12.
Gill to lead Gujarat Titans
With the Titans’ captain heading back to his IPL roots, the Gujarat Titans announced Shubman Gill as its new captain. The prolific opening batter is excited with the additional responsibility.
“I am delighted and proud to assume the captaincy of Gujarat Titans and thank the franchise for their trust in me to lead such a fine team. We have had two exceptional seasons and I keenly look forward to leading the team with our exciting brand of cricket,” Gill said through a Titans statement.
