Indian cricket all-rounder Hardik Pandya has made a surprising move from the Gujarat Titans to the Mumbai Indians ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, sources confirm. This move comes as a shock to many fans as Pandya was initially named in the retention list submitted by the Gujarat Titans. The deadline for IPL franchises to submit their retention lists was November 26, and while there were reports suggesting Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians, he was still featured in the Gujarat Titans’ list. However, multiple sources have now confirmed that Pandya’s transfer to Mumbai Indians was completed through an all-cash deal. This was made possible due to the trading window remaining open until December 12, even though the retention deadline had passed.
During this trading period, all trades between IPL franchises are considered valid, allowing Pandya’s move to Mumbai Indians to be finalized despite his inclusion in the Gujarat Titans’ list of retained players. Pandya became the captain of the Gujarat Titans in 2022 and led them to victory in their inaugural season. He also guided them to the IPL 2023 final, where they unfortunately lost to the Chennai Super Kings.
The IPL 2024 mini-auction is scheduled to take place on December 19 in Dubai. Mumbai Indians have retained players such as Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ishan Kishan, among others. On the other hand, the Gujarat Titans have retained Hardik Pandya, David Miller, and Rashid Khan, among others.
The trading window provides an opportunity for IPL franchises to strengthen their squads and make strategic changes ahead of the next season. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further updates and developments as the trading window remains open.
