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In a significant move ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction, the Gujarat Titans (GT) parted ways with their former captain Hardik Pandya as the star all-rounder returned to his former franchise Mumbai Indians (MI).
Hours after the retention deadline, MI announced the trade deal for Pandya from GT, securing his services for a reported all-cash deal worth INR 15 crore.
Following Pandya's departure, GT has appointed young opener Shubman Gill as their new captain. Despite retaining experienced New Zealand white-ball skipper Kane Williamson, the Gujarat-based franchise has opted to promote Gill as the leader of the side for IPL 2024.
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Commenting on Gill's appointment, legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers expressed his belief that GT missed a fantastic opportunity to name Williamson as their captain, considering his proven leadership credentials, including guiding Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to the IPL final in 2018.
"The minute I saw Kane Williamson's name as a retained player, I thought there was a fantastic opportunity to give an experienced player who has done it before an opportunity to captain for you. Give Shubman Gill the opportunity just to cement in all the formats in Indian cricket and just to have another good season at the IPL," De Villiers said.
Hardik Pandya's homecoming to Mumbai Indians was further enhanced by the franchise's trade deal for Cameron Green with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). This transaction bolstered MI's purse for the upcoming IPL player auction on December 19, allowing them to pursue additional targets.
The Mumbai Indians, led by Rohit Sharma, traded all-rounder Green to RCB, increasing their financial flexibility. Green, who was acquired by MI for INR 17.5 crore at the IPL auction last year, will now represent RCB in the upcoming season.
"They decided to throw him in as captain. It may pay off; I am not saying it is wrong. I am saying that it was a great opportunity for Shubman just to learn a little bit and know that the plan is for him to be captain in 2025. Nonetheless, I am excited to watch him perform and lead from the front," De Villiers concluded.
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