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Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who led IPL team Gujarat Titans (GT) in the tournament's last two editions, is set to return to Mumbai Indians (MI) as both franchises have finalised an all-cash deal trade-off.
Vikram Solanki, Director of Cricket for Gujarat Titans, said, “As the first captain of Gujarat Titans, Hardik Pandya has helped the franchise deliver two fantastic seasons that resulted in winning one IPL championship and one appearance in the final. He has now expressed a desire to return to his original team Mumbai Indians. We respect his decision and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Hardik back home! It’s a heartwarming reunion with our Mumbai Indians family! From being a young scouted talent of Mumbai Indians to now being a team India star, Hardik has come a long way and we’re excited for what the future holds for him and Mumbai Indians!” Nita M. Ambani said.
“Seeing Hardik back at Mumbai Indians makes me very happy. 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,” said Akash Ambani.
The confirmation came hours after the IPL retention window closed on November 26. GT had then stated that it had retained Pandya, who led the side to its inaugural victory in the 2022 edition.
However, PTI later reported that the delay in formal paperwork had prevented the IPL authority and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from issuing their nod for the trade-off before the closure of the retention window.
Shortly thereafter, the formalities were completed by both sides. While the retention window was closed, the trade-off is permitted till December 12, reports suggested.
Also Read: 'If it's true, Mumbai Indians have struck gold', says R Ashwin on Hardik Pandya's return to MI
Pandya was picked by Gujarat Titans before the 2022 auction from the list of available players for the two new franchises -- GT and Lucknow Super Giants. His reported fee was ₹15 crore and he led the side to back-to-back finals, winning the championship in his maiden year and losing a thriller to CSK in 2023.
(With PTI inputs)
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