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Hardik Pandya (Source: Twitter)
The cricketing community is abuzz with the sensational trade deal between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. The deal was for securing the services of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the upcoming IPL 2024. The star all-rounder is set to lead the five-time champions in the 17th edition of the tournament.
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Following the completion of the deal, speculation has arisen as a report suggesting that Mumbai Indians paid a substantial transfer fee for acquiring the all-rounder. The five-time champions are strategically building their core team for the future, especially with former skipper Rohit Sharma entering the twilight of his career.
As per a report from Indian Express, while the specific figure remains undisclosed the estimates suggest that an impressive sum of INR 100 crore was exchanged with Gujarat Titans to release Pandya. Another significant factor behind Hardik Pandya's move to Mumbai Indians was the looming mega auction of the 2025 tournament. Choosing Pandya, who not only adds stellar skills but can also take on the leadership role, appeared to be a prudent decision for the franchise.
Moreover, the transfer of Pandya brought several advantages to Gujarat Titans. In 2021, CVC Capital invested INR 5625 crore to participate in the IPL, whereas Mumbai Indians are overseen by a business family, unlike GT. Notably, the trade involving Pandya contributed to an INR 15 crore boost in Gujarat's financial portfolio.
He has completely recovered from his ankle injury: Reports
According to reliable sources, Hardik Pandya who is the all-rounder and also newly appointed captain of Mumbai Indians, has successfully recovered from his ankle injury. In addition to it, he is also expected to lead the Indian cricket team in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan starting on January 11. Additionally, Pandya is set to participate in the next season of the IPL.
"He has completely recovered from his ankle injury. He has been training every day," sources revealed as of TOI.
Earlier reports in the day suggested that due to the injury, there was a possibility of Pandya being sidelined for the next few months, which could potentially result in his absence from IPL 2024 as well. Hardik sustained an ankle injury in November during India's 2023 ODI World Cup league match against Bangladesh in Pune. As a consequence, he was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup and the subsequent tour of South Africa.