Hardik Pandya has spoken out following the official confirmation of his trade from Gujarat Titans (GT) to Mumbai Indians (MI) on November 27 for the IPL 2024 season. This significant move represents a homecoming for Pandya, who was a key player for Mumbai Indians (MI) from 2015 to 2021.
The Indian all-rounder clinched four IPL titles with Mumbai Indians (MI) during that period. In a strategic move, MI secured Pandya's services through an all-cash deal with Gujarat Titans (GT) after intense negotiations, concluding after the IPL retention window closure on November 26.
The financial intricacies of the deal involved trading Cameron Green to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), providing Mumbai Indians with the necessary funds for Pandya's acquisition. Reportedly, Pandya's annual fee from his tenure with GT was ₹15 crore, which Mumbai Indians (MI) are now responsible for paying.
Pandya's time with GT was characterised by outstanding leadership and performance. Released by MI before the IPL 2022 mega auction, he was selected by the new Ahmedabad franchise, GT, where he assumed the role of captain. Leading the team, he guided GT to remarkable success, securing the championship in their inaugural year—a feat previously achieved only by Shane Warne's team.
He subsequently led the team to the IPL 2023 final, where they faced a tense defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Now, the Indian all-rounder has spoken out after the transfer, expressing that it evokes many wonderful memories and he is pleased to return to the five-time IPL Champions.
"This brings back so many wonderful memories. Mumbai. Wankhede. Paltan. Feels good to be back. #OneFamily @mumbaiindians”, said Hardik on Instagram.
Akash Ambani, the owner of Mumbai Indians, extended a warm welcome to the all-rounder, emphasising that he brings excellent balance to any team he joins.
"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," he said.
(Powered by AI, Inputs by India Today)
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