IPL 2024 Twitter Reactions

'Shocking Transfer' - Fans react as Hardik Pandya set to leave Gujarat Titans to return to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2024

Star all-rounder and Gujarat Titans skipper Hardik Pandya is all set to leave the IPL 2022 champions and return to the Mumbai Indians for IPL 2024.

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Sarah Andrew
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Hardik Pandya (Source - Twitter)

Hardik Pandya (Source - Twitter)

Hardik Pandya is all set to join the Mumbai Indians for IPL 2024 and beyond. Reports suggest that the Mumbai Indians had a cash trade with the Gujarat Titants. Notably, in exchange for ₹15 crore, MI will be getting Hardik back. However, reports suggest that Mumbai might also make Hardik their captain. With Rohit Sharma well over 36 and turning 37 by the time  IPL 2024 ends, it might be a good move from the Mumbai Indians.

However, it will be a loss for the Gujarat Titants who are ready to let go of their asset. The great all-rounder played a key role in the  building their fan base for Gujarat Titants early in the tournament. The way GG played their cricket was possibly due to the sacrifice of great cricketer. The star Indian all-rounder batted out of his position and anchored the innings, which allowed the power hitters to come after him and finish the innings.

With the ball, Hardik started bowling regularly in the  powerplay overs. In some of the big matches, like the final of the IPL 2022, Hardik stepped up and won the match for his team with the ball. Hardik helped Gujarat win their maiden title in 2022, which happened to be their first season. Even in the IPL 2023, Gujarat was so close to winning the trophy, if not for Jadeja's heroics with the bat towards the end. 

Endorsement deals pave way to the move?

However, reports suggest that Hardik asked Gujarat to provide him with more money and endorsements from brands during the IPL 2024. Since Gujarat could not afford it, they denied Hardik's demand. As a result, Hardik was reportedly consulted by Mumbai Indians, which was ready to pay him more and give brand endorsements as well. In addition, the deal was reportedly confirmed during the month of July–August but wasn't announced.

Meanwhile, as the focus of the players and fans was on the ODI World Cup 2023, it seemed that Hardik and MI did not announce anything about it. Mumbai needed someone who could take over the leadership after Rohit. Moreover, they also needed someone who could bring balance with all-rounder skills. There could not be a better player than Hardik for the role Mumbai was looking for.

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