Titans' Strategic Planning - Shubman Gill Identified for Leadership Role
New Delhi, Nov 27: Mumbai Indians (MI) have finalized a significant trade deal with Gujarat Titans, successfully bringing back the explosive all-rounder Hardik Pandya to the MI fold. Despite initial retention by the Titans on Sunday, both teams reached an agreement late in the day, marking a major move in the IPL trading landscape.
In an exclusive report on Nov 25, The Times of India (TOI) had hinted at ongoing negotiations between Hardik Pandya and MI for his return, shedding light on the possible reunion. Sources now confirm that MI is set to make a substantial financial commitment, surpassing Pandya's existing salary of Rs 15 crore. Additionally, a hefty transfer fee is part of the deal.
MI underwent strategic player releases to accommodate Pandya, with Jofra Archer leading the list. Tristan Stubbs, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, and Chris Jordan also bid farewell to the franchise.
The franchise is reportedly prepared to break the bank for Pandya, necessitating a purge of their budget. As part of the reshuffle, Cameron Green, released by MI, is expected to be traded to Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Should the Pandya deal go through, Gujarat Titans have their eyes on Shubman Gill for captaincy. Extensive discussions between the Titans management and Gill have taken place, shaping the team's auction strategy.
With the trading window open until Dec 12 and the IPL mini auction scheduled for Dec 19 in Dubai, franchises rushed to announce retained players by the Sunday deadline. This allowed IPL officials to finalize the list of released players for the upcoming auction pool.
In a surprising turn of events, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Kolkata Knight Riders made bold moves by releasing established players ahead of the auction. RCB bid farewell to Wanindu Hasaranga, Josh Hazlewood, and Harshal Patel. SRH decided to part ways with England's emerging batting sensation Harry Brook, while KKR released Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, and Shardul Thakur.
Delhi Capitals also joined the revamp trend, releasing a host of players as they gear up for a fresh start in the upcoming season. Domestic talents like Manish Pandey, Chetan Sakariya, Sarfaraz Khan, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Aman Khan, Ripal Patel, and Priyam Garg are on the release list. Overseas players Rilee Rossouw, Phil Salt, Rovman Powell, and Mustafizur Rahman are also part of Delhi Capitals' rebuilding strategy.
