(Image Source: BCCI)
[Saba Sports News] In an exciting update for Indian cricket and IPL enthusiasts, Hardik Pandya is reportedly gearing up for a return to the Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season. This move follows his two-season stint as the captain of the Gujarat Titans. A BCCI insider shared that Hardik is being eyed as a potential replacement for Rohit Sharma as the leader of the Mumbai Indians, with negotiations ongoing since the conclusion of the previous IPL season.
The Mumbai Indians and the Gujarat Titans are currently finalizing the details of this transfer. To secure Hardik, the Mumbai Indians must match his 15 crore salary, which could lead to the release of certain players, including Jofra Archer. Concurrently, the Gujarat Titans are on the hunt for a fitting substitute for Hardik.
The source from BCCI disclosed, “A couple of months before the World Cup, Hardik and MI agreed upon his return. Some growing differences between Hardik and the Titans management have led to this decision. The finalization of the deal hinges on both franchises settling the specifics, and any official announcement will follow thereafter.”
Hardik’s impressive captaincy for the Titans has significantly boosted his profile as a prospective white-ball captain for India. Once the deal is sealed, he will rejoin Mumbai Indians, the team that initially groomed him into a prominent seam-bowling all-rounder for India.
Amidst this, Mumbai Indians are reportedly looking for a long-term captain as Rohit Sharma approaches the twilight of his career and has indicated his readiness to relinquish the T20I captaincy. Despite investing in players like Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav post-Hardik’s 2022 release, the franchise is yet to be convinced of their leadership qualities.
In related news, Delhi Capitals have decided to let go of Sarfaraz Khan, Manish Pandey, and Kamlesh Nagarkoti for the upcoming season following their less-than-stellar performances last season. The franchise is set to acquire new domestic talent in the auction as part of their team overhaul strategy.