In a strategic move set to reshape the landscape of IPL 2024, the Mumbai Indians are on the verge of securing star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya from the Gujarat Titans, and the transaction is primed to be an exclusively cash-driven affair.
In this impending deal, Mumbai Indians are slated to transfer a substantial ₹15 crore to Gujarat Titans, heralding the return of the dynamic player to their squad.
Hardik Pandya, the versatile all-rounder, currently finds himself in the midst of negotiations with the Mumbai Indians, five-time champions of the Indian Premier League.
Speculations are ablaze regarding Hardik Pandya’s potential return, marking what could be a groundbreaking trade for the league.
Originating his IPL journey with Mumbai Indians in 2015, reports suggest that the franchise is actively pursuing Pandya’s comeback, envisioning him as a potential long-term captain.
The proposed deal is expected to transpire solely in the currency of cash, with Mumbai Indians displaying a willingness to commit ₹15 crore to secure the services of the esteemed all-rounder.
The final confirmation or negation of this trade is anticipated to unfold in the eleventh hour on the trading day deadline, set for Sunday.
The reverberations of this potential return resonate within the on-field dynamics, prompting queries about Hardik Pandya’s collaboration with Rohit Sharma in the upcoming IPL season.
Despite Pandya leading the Indian T20I team for a substantial portion of 2023, Rohit’s absence from the format since the T20 World Cup semifinal last year introduces an element of uncertainty.
The feasibility of this high-stakes trade hinges on Mumbai Indians’ capacity to release multiple prominent players, essential for amassing sufficient funds, presently restricted at a meager ₹5,00,000.
Given Pandya’s market value of ₹15 crore, this financial constraint might necessitate the potential release of players like Ishan Kishan, valued at ₹15.25 crore, or even Jofra Archer at ₹8 crore, especially if concerns linger regarding his return to fitness.
Furthermore, indications suggest that Gujarat Titans harbor an interest in securing Cameron Green and another player, introducing additional layers of complexity to this potential trade scenario.