Hardik Pandya, the renowned Indian all-rounder, has recently expressed his heartfelt sentiments as he bids farewell to Gujarat Titans (GT), following his move back to Mumbai Indians for the upcoming IPL season. Pandya's tenure as captain of GT was marked by remarkable achievements, including leading the team to its first IPL title in 2022 and a finals appearance in 2023.
In order to facilitate Pandya's return, Mumbai Indians had to make significant adjustments to their budget. This necessitated the trading of Cameron Green to Royal Challengers Bangalore to free up the required financial resources. Pandya's departure from GT concludes his two-year journey with the team, during which he made an indelible impact.
Reflecting on his time with GT, Pandya shared on a social media platform that leading the team was an honor and the memories created during his tenure would remain with him forever. His leadership and performance were instrumental in GT's success, evidenced by their title win in 2022 and reaching the final in 2023.
“I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the fans, team, and management at Gujarat Titans. Being part of the team and leading it has been an absolute honour, and I am immensely thankful for the love and encouragement my family and I have received as a player and as an individual. The memories and experiences with GT will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for the unforgettable journey,” Pandya posted on ‘X’.
Pandya's return to Mumbai Indians, where he initially began his IPL career in 2015, is a significant move. He is one of the few IPL captains to be traded, joining players like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane, who underwent similar transitions in 2020. His journey with MI has been successful, contributing to four IPL title wins in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.
Despite a less than stellar season in 2021, which led to his release from MI, Pandya's overall IPL record is impressive. In 123 IPL matches, he has scored 2,309 runs at an average of 30.38 and a strike rate of 145.86, including 10 half-centuries. His prowess as an all-rounder is further highlighted by his tally of 53 wickets, showcasing his versatility and skill with both bat and ball.
Pandya's transition back to Mumbai Indians and his proven track record in the IPL mark a new chapter in his career. His role in the upcoming season will be closely watched, as he brings his experience and talent back to the team where he first made his mark in the league.
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