India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has returned to playing competitive cricket ahead of IPL 2024. Pandya, who suffered an ankle injury during last year’s home World Cup, appeared for his first competitive cricket match for Reliance 1 in the DY Patil T20 Cup in Navi Mumbai on Monday (Feb 26).

The right-handed cricketer picked two for 22 from his quota of three overs and helped his team cross the winning line in a tight chase by coming in at number 10. Pandya‘s Reliance beat Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited by two wickets.

After completing the rehab, Pandya trained in Baroda for some time; later featured in three practice T20 matches alongside Rishabh Pant organised by the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Alur last week. Pandya batted and bowled in all those matches and later got clearance from the NCA to feature in this ongoing tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series</a>

Following the completion of this tournament, Pandya will return to the NCA in early March for a scheduled final assessment test before joining Mumbai Indians’ training camp ahead of the 17th season of the IPL, beginning on March 22 in Chennai.

Besides Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer will also feature in the DY Patil T20 Cup.&nbsp;

<h2>Top stars return to cricket field</h2>

Following an unsavoury episode surrounding a few centrally contracted players, mainly Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, and the BCCI officials, the concerned India cricketers have returned to on-field cricket.&nbsp;

While Iyer got dropped from the India squad for the final three Tests on precautionary grounds, as he continues to recover from the persistent back injury, Ishan missed all on-field action since Australia T20Is last year.

Kishan got picked in the white-ball squads for the South Africa series but upon landing in India, informed the BCCI of him remaining unavailable for an indefinite period, citing ‘mental fatigue’.&nbsp;

However, the Indian Cricket Board wrote to the concerned centrally contracted players, those who are neither picked for any India Team nor are getting treated at the NCA for any injury, to appear for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy.

After both disobeyed BCCI’s clear directives, the board re-wrote to them warning of severe implications in case of repeated fouls.

Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya will lead Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024, replacing Rohit Sharma, while Kishan and Suryakumar will also feature in the competition.&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer will captain Kolkata Knight Riders.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has returned to playing competitive cricket ahead of IPL 2024. Pandya, who suffered an ankle injury during last year’s home World Cup, appeared for his first competitive cricket match for Reliance 1 in the DY Patil T20 Cup in Navi Mumbai on Monday (Feb 26).

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has returned to playing competitive cricket ahead of IPL 2024. Pandya, who suffered an ankle injury during last year’s home World Cup, appeared for his first competitive cricket match for Reliance 1 in the DY Patil T20 Cup in Navi Mumbai on Monday (Feb 26). The right-handed cricketer picked two for 22 from his quota of three overs and helped his team cross the winning line in a tight chase by coming in at number 10. Pandya‘s Reliance beat Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited by two wickets. After completing the rehab, Pandya trained in Baroda for some time; later featured in three practice T20 matches alongside Rishabh Pant organised by the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Alur last week. Pandya batted and bowled in all those matches and later got clearance from the NCA to feature in this ongoing tournament. ALSO READ: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series Following the completion of this tournament, Pandya will return to the NCA in early March for a scheduled final assessment test before joining Mumbai Indians’ training camp ahead of the 17th season of the IPL, beginning on March 22 in Chennai. Besides Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer will also feature in the DY Patil T20 Cup. Top stars return to cricket field Following an unsavoury episode surrounding a few centrally contracted players, mainly Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, and the BCCI officials, the concerned India cricketers have returned to on-field cricket. While Iyer got dropped from the India squad for the final three Tests on precautionary grounds, as he continues to recover from the persistent back injury, Ishan missed all on-field action since Australia T20Is last year. Kishan got picked in the white-ball squads for the South Africa series but upon landing in India, informed the BCCI of him remaining unavailable for an indefinite period, citing ‘mental fatigue’. However, the Indian Cricket Board wrote to the concerned centrally contracted players, those who are neither picked for any India Team nor are getting treated at the NCA for any injury, to appear for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy. After both disobeyed BCCI’s clear directives, the board re-wrote to them warning of severe implications in case of repeated fouls. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya will lead Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024, replacing Rohit Sharma, while Kishan and Suryakumar will also feature in the competition. Shreyas Iyer will captain Kolkata Knight Riders.

Hardik Pandya returns to competitive cricket for first time since suffering ankle injury

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA. At an event in the Rajkot, which saw the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium being renamed to Niranjan Shah Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 14), Shah confirmed that Hitman will lead the Men in Blue in the mega event which starts in early June. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland.

After the announcement from Shah, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble said that he isn't surprised with the call. Speaking to Sports18, Kumble pointed out, "The Rohit Sharma announcement, I don't think was a surprise because I certainly believe that we need that stability, especially at the top. Rohit is someone who has done exceptionally well as India's captain."

Kumble added, "His T20 form in the IPL hasn't been special in the last couple of years but he's a quality player. We saw against Afghanistan, when the team was struggling a bit he came and scored that wonderful hundred. It's important you have that kind of stability going into the T20 World Cup."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-will-lead-india-in-2024-t20-world-cup-hardik-to-be-his-deputy-jay-shah-690429">Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: Jay Shah</a>

On Wednesday, Shah said in the event in Rajkot, "We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. But we won hearts there by winning 10 matches in a row. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Barbados."

Rohit -- a white-ball legend -- had not featured in India's T20I setup since their 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal loss&nbsp;to eventual winners England in Adelaide. He returned to the shortest format after 14 months during India's three T20Is versus Afghanistan, at home, early this year. The series also saw Virat Kohli's return to the format, after an equal number of months. Shah also opined on Kohli's spot with regard to the T20 WC. He said, "We will talk about him [soon]."

Kohli is currently on a break from international cricket due to personal reasons and has not featured in India's ongoing home Tests versus England. On Thursday (Feb 15), India and England locked horns on Day 1 of the third Test in Rajkot. Opting to bat first, India went to lunch at 93/3 with captain Rohit surpassing the 50-run mark for the first time in the series. The five-match series is currently level&nbsp;at 1-1.

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA.

On the eve of the Rajkot Test between India and England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition, to be held in West Indies and USA. At an event in the Rajkot, which saw the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium being renamed to Niranjan Shah Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 14), Shah confirmed that Hitman will lead the Men in Blue in the mega event which starts in early June. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland. After the announcement from Shah, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble said that he isn't surprised with the call. Speaking to Sports18, Kumble pointed out, "The Rohit Sharma announcement, I don't think was a surprise because I certainly believe that we need that stability, especially at the top. Rohit is someone who has done exceptionally well as India's captain." Kumble added, "His T20 form in the IPL hasn't been special in the last couple of years but he's a quality player. We saw against Afghanistan, when the team was struggling a bit he came and scored that wonderful hundred. It's important you have that kind of stability going into the T20 World Cup." Also read: Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: Jay Shah On Wednesday, Shah said in the event in Rajkot, "We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. But we won hearts there by winning 10 matches in a row. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Barbados." Rohit -- a white-ball legend -- had not featured in India's T20I setup since their 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal loss to eventual winners England in Adelaide. He returned to the shortest format after 14 months during India's three T20Is versus Afghanistan, at home, early this year. The series also saw Virat Kohli's return to the format, after an equal number of months. Shah also opined on Kohli's spot with regard to the T20 WC. He said, "We will talk about him [soon]." Kohli is currently on a break from international cricket due to personal reasons and has not featured in India's ongoing home Tests versus England. On Thursday (Feb 15), India and England locked horns on Day 1 of the third Test in Rajkot. Opting to bat first, India went to lunch at 93/3 with captain Rohit surpassing the 50-run mark for the first time in the series. The five-match series is currently level at 1-1.

Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why -

Rohit Sharma will continue to lead India at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA (in June), BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed on the eve of the third India-England Test in Rajkot. Shah said Rohit has everyone's backing within the dressing room and the board, adding future captain Hardik Pandya will be his deputy in this tournament.

After replacing Virat Kohli as the all-format skipper in late 2021, Rohit captained Team India at the 2022 T20 WC in Australia, where they lost to England by ten wickets in the semis. Under his leadership, India played the World Test Championship (WTC) and the 2023 World Cup final (at home), losing to Australia on both occasions.&nbsp;

Rohit remained unavailable for selection in the T20Is since the Adelaide semis loss, only to return during the Afghanistan T20Is earlier this year. Rohit’s selection in that series indicated who will lead India in the marquee event later in the year.

"The fact that he was returning after a year to lead in the Afghanistan series recently meant he was obviously going to [lead in the T20 World Cup]," Shah said during an event in Rajkot on Wednesday (Feb 14).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sarfaraz-khan-dhruv-jurel-debut-for-india-as-hosts-bat-first-against-england-in-rajkot-690402">Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel debut for India as hosts bat first against England in Rajkot</a>

While backing Rohit to break the ice (of India winning an ICC tournament), Shah confirmed Pandya’s role in the team for the T20 World Cup.

 
"In T20s, Hardik will be the captain for certain [in the future],” Shah said.

"Rohit has the ability, we know. As he showed in the ODI World Cup, where we won 10 matches in a row until the final. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma's captaincy in Barbados,” the BCCI&nbsp;secretary added.

<h2>Shah opens on Virat Kohli’s T20I future</h2>

Jay Shah also commented on the noise around Virat Kohli for a) the reason behind missing the England Tests, and b) will he play the T20 World Cup?

On Virat missing the home series against England, Shah said that a man who is the first to raise his hand whenever the team needs him should be left alone if he’s asked for some space (probably for the first time in his career).&nbsp;

"If a person, for the first time in a 15-year career, asks for personal leave, it's his right. Virat is not a player who will ask for leave for no reason. We need to trust our player and back him,” Shah said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on Virat Kohli’s T20I future, Shah said, "We will talk about him [soon]."

Rohit Sharma will continue to lead India at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA (in June), BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed on the eve of the third India-England Test in Rajkot.

Rohit Sharma will continue to lead India at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA (in June), BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed on the eve of the third India-England Test in Rajkot. Shah said Rohit has everyone's backing within the dressing room and the board, adding future captain Hardik Pandya will be his deputy in this tournament. After replacing Virat Kohli as the all-format skipper in late 2021, Rohit captained Team India at the 2022 T20 WC in Australia, where they lost to England by ten wickets in the semis. Under his leadership, India played the World Test Championship (WTC) and the 2023 World Cup final (at home), losing to Australia on both occasions. Rohit remained unavailable for selection in the T20Is since the Adelaide semis loss, only to return during the Afghanistan T20Is earlier this year. Rohit’s selection in that series indicated who will lead India in the marquee event later in the year. "The fact that he was returning after a year to lead in the Afghanistan series recently meant he was obviously going to [lead in the T20 World Cup]," Shah said during an event in Rajkot on Wednesday (Feb 14). ALSO READ: Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel debut for India as hosts bat first against England in Rajkot While backing Rohit to break the ice (of India winning an ICC tournament), Shah confirmed Pandya’s role in the team for the T20 World Cup. "In T20s, Hardik will be the captain for certain [in the future],” Shah said. "Rohit has the ability, we know. As he showed in the ODI World Cup, where we won 10 matches in a row until the final. I am confident that India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma's captaincy in Barbados,” the BCCI secretary added. Shah opens on Virat Kohli’s T20I future Jay Shah also commented on the noise around Virat Kohli for a) the reason behind missing the England Tests, and b) will he play the T20 World Cup? On Virat missing the home series against England, Shah said that a man who is the first to raise his hand whenever the team needs him should be left alone if he’s asked for some space (probably for the first time in his career). "If a person, for the first time in a 15-year career, asks for personal leave, it's his right. Virat is not a player who will ask for leave for no reason. We need to trust our player and back him,” Shah said. Meanwhile, on Virat Kohli’s T20I future, Shah said, "We will talk about him [soon]."

Rohit Sharma will lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup, Hardik to be his deputy: BCCI chief Jay Shah

In Dec 2023, Mumbai Indians (MI) dropped a bombshell by announcing Hardik Pandya as the skipper, putting an end to Rohit Sharma's glorious run as Mumbai captain from 2013-2023. Hardik moved back to the MI camp on the retention deadline day, leaving a huge void on Gujarat Titans (GT). The move of Pandya replacing Rohit as the MI captain&nbsp;met with mixed responses. Now, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has reacted to MI's move and said 'Hardik's captaincy is only going to benefit' the franchise.

Talking to Star Sports, Gavaskar opined, "Look they have always thought about the future of the franchise. Rohit Sharma is already 36 years old and also faces immense pressure being the captain of India for all three formats. They have tried to reduce some of that burden and given that responsibility on the young shoulders of Hardik Pandya."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-mark-wood-returns-as-england-name-playing-xi-for-rajkot-test-vs-india-690153">Ind vs Eng: Mark Wood returns as England name playing XI for Rajkot Test vs India</a>

Gavaskar added, "Handing Hardik the captaincy is only going to benefit the Mumbai Indians. They have now given the freedom to Rohit to go and express himself freely at the top of the order. Hardik can then come at No. 3 or No. 5 and help them post totals of 200-plus consistently."

Under Rohit, MI had a dream run from 2013-2023; winning the IPL championship on five occasions. However, Hitman's batting has gone down&nbsp;in the last few seasons. In 2023, he had an ordinary run with 332 runs at 132.80. Since 2019, he has crossed the 400-run mark in a season only once and failed to even touch the 300-run mark in 2022. Hence, with no additional responsibility, Rohit can shine and regain his lost mojo in IPL 2024.

Hardik has led GT to the title in their maiden season in 2022 and the franchise ended second last year. Thus, he has captaincy experience in the IPL and will be confident enough to take over from Rohit in the upcoming season.

MI squad for IPL 2024

Ishan Kishan, Vishnu Vinod, Rohit Sharma, Tim David, Suryakumar Yadav, N. Tilak Varma, Dewald Brevis, Hardik Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Nehal Wadhera, Shams Mulani, Gerald Coetzee, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma, Naman Dhir, Jasprit Bumrah, Jason Behrendorff, Kumar Kartikeya, Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Piyush Chawla, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Anshul Kamboj, Shreyas Gopal

In Dec 2023, Mumbai Indians (MI) dropped a bombshell by announcing Hardik Pandya as the skipper, putting an end to Rohit Sharma's glorious run as Mumbai captain from 2013-2023.

In Dec 2023, Mumbai Indians (MI) dropped a bombshell by announcing Hardik Pandya as the skipper, putting an end to Rohit Sharma's glorious run as Mumbai captain from 2013-2023. Hardik moved back to the MI camp on the retention deadline day, leaving a huge void on Gujarat Titans (GT). The move of Pandya replacing Rohit as the MI captain met with mixed responses. Now, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has reacted to MI's move and said 'Hardik's captaincy is only going to benefit' the franchise. Talking to Star Sports, Gavaskar opined, "Look they have always thought about the future of the franchise. Rohit Sharma is already 36 years old and also faces immense pressure being the captain of India for all three formats. They have tried to reduce some of that burden and given that responsibility on the young shoulders of Hardik Pandya." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Mark Wood returns as England name playing XI for Rajkot Test vs India Gavaskar added, "Handing Hardik the captaincy is only going to benefit the Mumbai Indians. They have now given the freedom to Rohit to go and express himself freely at the top of the order. Hardik can then come at No. 3 or No. 5 and help them post totals of 200-plus consistently." Under Rohit, MI had a dream run from 2013-2023; winning the IPL championship on five occasions. However, Hitman's batting has gone down in the last few seasons. In 2023, he had an ordinary run with 332 runs at 132.80. Since 2019, he has crossed the 400-run mark in a season only once and failed to even touch the 300-run mark in 2022. Hence, with no additional responsibility, Rohit can shine and regain his lost mojo in IPL 2024. Hardik has led GT to the title in their maiden season in 2022 and the franchise ended second last year. Thus, he has captaincy experience in the IPL and will be confident enough to take over from Rohit in the upcoming season. MI squad for IPL 2024 Ishan Kishan, Vishnu Vinod, Rohit Sharma, Tim David, Suryakumar Yadav, N. Tilak Varma, Dewald Brevis, Hardik Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Nehal Wadhera, Shams Mulani, Gerald Coetzee, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma, Naman Dhir, Jasprit Bumrah, Jason Behrendorff, Kumar Kartikeya, Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Piyush Chawla, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Anshul Kamboj, Shreyas Gopal

'Rohit Sharma is already 36': Gavaskar shares his take on Hardik Pandya becoming MI captain for IPL 2024

Before the end of 2023, the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, ending&nbsp;Rohit Sharma's glorious captaincy era. Hardik was brought back by the MI franchise, from Gujarat Titans (GT), in a mega trade ahead of the IPL 2024 auction. With him replacing Rohit, the move met with mixed reactions.

Two months since Hardik's appointment, MI head coach Mark Boucher opined on the team management's decision regarding the big call. Boucher stated that 'it was a purely cricketing decision' and lesser responsibilities will help Rohit enjoy as a player,&nbsp;following some ordinary run&nbsp;with the bat in the recent IPL seasons.

Speaking on Smash Sports Podcast, Boucher said, "I think it was purely a cricketing decision. We saw the window period to get Hardik back as a player. For me it's a transition phase. A lot of people don't understand in India, people get quite emotional, but you know you take the emotions away from it. I think it's just more of a cricketing decision that was made and I do think it is going to bring the best out of Rohit as a person as a player. Just let him go out and enjoy and score some good runs."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-shubman-gill-lauds-support-from-rohit-sharma-coaching-staff-after-century-on-day-3-687049">IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Shubman Gill lauds support from Rohit Sharma, coaching staff after century on day 3</a>

<h2>'This is an&nbsp;opportunity for him to step as a player'</h2>

The South African further opined, "One thing I did pick up with Ro (Rohit) is that he is a fantastic guy. I mean he's been captaining for ages and he's done really well for Mumbai Indians. Now he also leads India as well. It is that he walks into a place and there's just cameras in it and he's so busy and he hasn't had probably the best couple of seasons of late with the bat but he's done well as a captain.

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"And I just thought you know when we're speaking with the whole Mumbai Indians group, we thought that maybe this is the opportunity for him to step as a player. We believe he got some great value to add and just go out there and actually enjoy it without the hype of being a captain."
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
He added, "He is still going to captain India so that hype's going be there but when he steps into the IPL maybe just taking that extra bit of pressure off him as a captain an maybe we get the best out of Rohit Sharma. We want to see him playing with a smile on his face, spending a bit of time with his beautiful family."

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On Hardik filling the big shoes of Rohit -- under whom MI have won five IPL titles (joint-most along with Chennai Super Kings) -- Boucher said, "He is a Mumbai Indians boy. He went to other franchise, won the title in first year, ended up runner-up in his second year. So there's obviously some very good leadership skills as well."

With the likes of Rohit, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, etc., Hardik will enjoy a lot of support when he steps on the field as the MI captain in the forthcoming IPL season.

It will be interesting to see how he responds to the challenge of replacing Rohit as the captain of a&nbsp;high-profile franchise. He has tasted success as GT skipper, leading them to the IPL title in their maiden season in 2022, however, captaining Mumbai will be a different experience altogether.&nbsp;

MI squad for IPL 2024: Ishan Kishan, Vishnu Vinod,&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Tim David, Suryakumar Yadav, N. Tilak Varma, Dewald Brevis, Hardik Pandya (c), Romario Shepherd, Nehal Wadhera, Shams Mulani, Gerald Coetzee, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma, Naman Dhir, Jasprit Bumrah, Jason Behrendorff, Kumar Kartikeya, Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Piyush Chawla, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Anshul Kamboj, Shreyas Gopal.
</section>
</section>

Before the end of 2023, the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, ending Rohit Sharma's glorious captaincy era.

Before the end of 2023, the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, ending Rohit Sharma's glorious captaincy era. Hardik was brought back by the MI franchise, from Gujarat Titans (GT), in a mega trade ahead of the IPL 2024 auction. With him replacing Rohit, the move met with mixed reactions. Two months since Hardik's appointment, MI head coach Mark Boucher opined on the team management's decision regarding the big call. Boucher stated that 'it was a purely cricketing decision' and lesser responsibilities will help Rohit enjoy as a player, following some ordinary run with the bat in the recent IPL seasons. Speaking on Smash Sports Podcast, Boucher said, "I think it was purely a cricketing decision. We saw the window period to get Hardik back as a player. For me it's a transition phase. A lot of people don't understand in India, people get quite emotional, but you know you take the emotions away from it. I think it's just more of a cricketing decision that was made and I do think it is going to bring the best out of Rohit as a person as a player. Just let him go out and enjoy and score some good runs." Also read: IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Shubman Gill lauds support from Rohit Sharma, coaching staff after century on day 3 'This is an opportunity for him to step as a player' The South African further opined, "One thing I did pick up with Ro (Rohit) is that he is a fantastic guy. I mean he's been captaining for ages and he's done really well for Mumbai Indians. Now he also leads India as well. It is that he walks into a place and there's just cameras in it and he's so busy and he hasn't had probably the best couple of seasons of late with the bat but he's done well as a captain. "And I just thought you know when we're speaking with the whole Mumbai Indians group, we thought that maybe this is the opportunity for him to step as a player. We believe he got some great value to add and just go out there and actually enjoy it without the hype of being a captain." He added, "He is still going to captain India so that hype's going be there but when he steps into the IPL maybe just taking that extra bit of pressure off him as a captain an maybe we get the best out of Rohit Sharma. We want to see him playing with a smile on his face, spending a bit of time with his beautiful family." On Hardik filling the big shoes of Rohit -- under whom MI have won five IPL titles (joint-most along with Chennai Super Kings) -- Boucher said, "He is a Mumbai Indians boy. He went to other franchise, won the title in first year, ended up runner-up in his second year. So there's obviously some very good leadership skills as well." With the likes of Rohit, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, etc., Hardik will enjoy a lot of support when he steps on the field as the MI captain in the forthcoming IPL season. It will be interesting to see how he responds to the challenge of replacing Rohit as the captain of a high-profile franchise. He has tasted success as GT skipper, leading them to the IPL title in their maiden season in 2022, however, captaining Mumbai will be a different experience altogether. MI squad for IPL 2024: Ishan Kishan, Vishnu Vinod, Rohit Sharma, Tim David, Suryakumar Yadav, N. Tilak Varma, Dewald Brevis, Hardik Pandya (c), Romario Shepherd, Nehal Wadhera, Shams Mulani, Gerald Coetzee, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma, Naman Dhir, Jasprit Bumrah, Jason Behrendorff, Kumar Kartikeya, Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Piyush Chawla, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Anshul Kamboj, Shreyas Gopal.

People in India get emotional but...: MI coach on Hardik replacing Rohit as captain ahead of IPL 2024

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has recovered from the ankle injury suffered in the ODI World Cup 2023 and has started bowling at full tilt. The all-rounder posted a video on his official X handle where he can be seen bowling and doing other drills. Pandya is expected to be back for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season where he'll captain Mumbai Indians (MI) for the first time. He was recently traded to MI from Gujarat Titans in December 2023. Pandya spent two seasons with Titans as the skipper from 2022 to 2023.

"I'm feeling very good after coming back here. I treat (this ground) as a temple, because the amount of things I've learnt on this ground, it's like a temple for me. What it has taught me is priceless. My journey started literally 17 years back on this very ground. I will make sure everything possible today, and every day," Pandya said in the video posted on X. Have a look at the clip below:

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Giving it all I got, every single day ✌️💥 <a href="https://t.co/hYwk7oNOoL">pic.twitter.com/hYwk7oNOoL</a>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1751207086623707214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Pandya got injured on October 19 against Bangladesh in OD WC and hasn't played since. He missed out on the five T20I series against Australia at home right after the quadrennial tournament before missing the South Africa tour as well. He was also not part of the Afghanistan T20Is at home earlier this month.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-australias-mitchell-starc-breaks-wi-bowler-shamar-josephs-toe-with-crushing-yorker-in-2nd-test-684430">Australia's Mitchell Starc INJURES WI bowler Shamar Joseph's toe with crushing yorker in 2nd Test&nbsp;</a>

Pandya's fitness is crucial to India's plans in white-ball cricket, especially in T20Is. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli playing selective T20Is, he's seen as a potential skipper to lead the side. IPL 2024 will play an important role in proving his fitness as India prepare for the T20I World Cup scheduled to be played in June later this year in West Indies and the USA.

Pandya, however, has proven his credentials as a leader, guiding Gujarat Titans to victory in their first season in the IPL 2023. He also took the team into the final in the next season but lost to eventual winners Chennai Super Kings.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has recovered from the ankle injury suffered in the ODI World Cup 2023 and has started bowling at full tilt. The all-rounder posted a video on his official X handle where he can be seen bowling and doing other drills.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has recovered from the ankle injury suffered in the ODI World Cup 2023 and has started bowling at full tilt. The all-rounder posted a video on his official X handle where he can be seen bowling and doing other drills. Pandya is expected to be back for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season where he'll captain Mumbai Indians (MI) for the first time. He was recently traded to MI from Gujarat Titans in December 2023. Pandya spent two seasons with Titans as the skipper from 2022 to 2023. "I'm feeling very good after coming back here. I treat (this ground) as a temple, because the amount of things I've learnt on this ground, it's like a temple for me. What it has taught me is priceless. My journey started literally 17 years back on this very ground. I will make sure everything possible today, and every day," Pandya said in the video posted on X. Have a look at the clip below: Giving it all I got, every single day ✌️💥 pic.twitter.com/hYwk7oNOoL — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) January 27, 2024 × Pandya got injured on October 19 against Bangladesh in OD WC and hasn't played since. He missed out on the five T20I series against Australia at home right after the quadrennial tournament before missing the South Africa tour as well. He was also not part of the Afghanistan T20Is at home earlier this month. Also Watch: Australia's Mitchell Starc INJURES WI bowler Shamar Joseph's toe with crushing yorker in 2nd Test Pandya's fitness is crucial to India's plans in white-ball cricket, especially in T20Is. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli playing selective T20Is, he's seen as a potential skipper to lead the side. IPL 2024 will play an important role in proving his fitness as India prepare for the T20I World Cup scheduled to be played in June later this year in West Indies and the USA. Pandya, however, has proven his credentials as a leader, guiding Gujarat Titans to victory in their first season in the IPL 2023. He also took the team into the final in the next season but lost to eventual winners Chennai Super Kings.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya posts video of bowling ahead of IPL 2024 comeback - WATCH

Shivam Dube has been in sublime form in India's ongoing three T20Is versus Afghanistan. He&nbsp;scored&nbsp;60* and 63* in the first two T20Is&nbsp;and was the Player-of-the-Match in the series opener. The left-hander is making a strong statement ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Former Indian player Rohan Sunil Gavaskar feels it won't be easy to overlook Dube irrespective of Hardik Pandya's fitness. Dube is being looked upon as Hardik's backup, given his injury issues, but Gavaskar's son feels the former might get selected even if Hardik is fit.&nbsp;

<h2>‘What he’s doing is ensuring his place&nbsp;even if Hardik is fit’</h2>

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Rohan said, "We have been talking about him as, ‘Oh, listen, what if Hardik is unfit?’, I think what he is doing is making sure that even if Hardik is fit, he is on that plane in that World Cup squad. If you put in performances like this, it is very hard for anyone to drop you. It is going to be a really tough decision for the selectors if they decide to drop him. He is doing all that he can, which is giving the selectors a headache."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-virat-kohli-will-be-very-important-for-india-in-t20-world-cup-former-all-rounder-suresh-raina-680161">Ind vs Afg: Virat Kohli will be very important for India in T20 World Cup - Former all-rounder Suresh Raina</a>

The former Indian cricketer added, "After these two games, I think he now feels that he belongs at the international level. He has got the appreciation and respect of his teammates because he put in two wonderful performances. I think he is just a lot more comfortable about his own game. He knows his own game better. He is not trying to copy anyone now. He is saying, ‘This is what I can do and what I bring to the table’."

Dube, who has also accounted for two wickets in the Afghanistan T20Is, has credited his stint with&nbsp;the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK)&nbsp;in IPL 2023, for his recent success at the international level. His power-hitting and ability to judge the weak link in the opposition's bowling line-up has been praised by former cricketers during the Afghan series.&nbsp;

At present, Rohit Sharma-led India lead the three T20Is 2-0 and will square off against Afghanistan&nbsp;for the third and inconsequential match on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Shivam Dube has been in sublime form in India's ongoing three T20Is versus Afghanistan. He scored 60* and 63* in the first two T20Is and was the Player-of-the-Match in the series opener.

Shivam Dube has been in sublime form in India's ongoing three T20Is versus Afghanistan. He scored 60* and 63* in the first two T20Is and was the Player-of-the-Match in the series opener. The left-hander is making a strong statement ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Former Indian player Rohan Sunil Gavaskar feels it won't be easy to overlook Dube irrespective of Hardik Pandya's fitness. Dube is being looked upon as Hardik's backup, given his injury issues, but Gavaskar's son feels the former might get selected even if Hardik is fit. ‘What he’s doing is ensuring his place even if Hardik is fit’ Speaking to Cricbuzz, Rohan said, "We have been talking about him as, ‘Oh, listen, what if Hardik is unfit?’, I think what he is doing is making sure that even if Hardik is fit, he is on that plane in that World Cup squad. If you put in performances like this, it is very hard for anyone to drop you. It is going to be a really tough decision for the selectors if they decide to drop him. He is doing all that he can, which is giving the selectors a headache." Also read: Ind vs Afg: Virat Kohli will be very important for India in T20 World Cup - Former all-rounder Suresh Raina The former Indian cricketer added, "After these two games, I think he now feels that he belongs at the international level. He has got the appreciation and respect of his teammates because he put in two wonderful performances. I think he is just a lot more comfortable about his own game. He knows his own game better. He is not trying to copy anyone now. He is saying, ‘This is what I can do and what I bring to the table’." Dube, who has also accounted for two wickets in the Afghanistan T20Is, has credited his stint with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2023, for his recent success at the international level. His power-hitting and ability to judge the weak link in the opposition's bowling line-up has been praised by former cricketers during the Afghan series. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India lead the three T20Is 2-0 and will square off against Afghanistan for the third and inconsequential match on Wednesday (Jan 17) in Bengaluru.

Dube making sure he is part of India’s 2024 T20 WC squad even if Hardik is fit, says Rohan Gavaskar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Sunday (Jan 7), announced India's squad for the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. The squad saw the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I setup after the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final. The two had not been part of India's T20I scheme of things since then. Their return has now potentially sealed their spots for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. The squad does not comprise KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer whereas Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are out of action due to injury concerns.&nbsp;

Former Indian stumper Saba Karim opened up on India's squad. He feels the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors have opted for Rohit and Kohli as they want experience in the T20 WC squad. In addition, Hardik-- who led India majorly in the format in Rohit-Kohli's absence -- has been hit with injury concerns of late and, hence, Rohit's return as India captain makes sense.

<h2>'Selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but...'</h2>

During a discussion on&nbsp;Sports 18, Karim said,&nbsp;“There is no doubt now (on Rohit-Kohli receiving the backing of selectors to feature in India's squad at 2024&nbsp;T20 WC). Now that you have included both these players against Afghanistan, it means there has been a massive change in the selectors' thinking. They feel they need experience for the World Cup. That's why Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have made a comeback. There is another thing. Until now, the selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but questions are being raised because of Hardik Pandya's injury. That's why the selectors have gone back to Rohit Sharma to bring stability, both as a captain and a batter."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-signs-suggest-that-rohit-sharma-is-going-to-lead-india-in-t20-wc-feels-former-player-kris-srikkanth-677732">All signs suggest Rohit Sharma will lead India in T20 WC, says former player Kris Srikkanth</a>

Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a strong statement in the upcoming three T20Is versus Afghanistan, which gets underway on Jan 11 (Thursday) in Mohali.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Sunday (Jan 7), announced India's squad for the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. The squad saw the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I setup after the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), on Sunday (Jan 7), announced India's squad for the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. The squad saw the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I setup after the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final. The two had not been part of India's T20I scheme of things since then. Their return has now potentially sealed their spots for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. The squad does not comprise KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer whereas Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are out of action due to injury concerns. Former Indian stumper Saba Karim opened up on India's squad. He feels the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors have opted for Rohit and Kohli as they want experience in the T20 WC squad. In addition, Hardik-- who led India majorly in the format in Rohit-Kohli's absence -- has been hit with injury concerns of late and, hence, Rohit's return as India captain makes sense. 'Selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but...' During a discussion on Sports 18, Karim said, “There is no doubt now (on Rohit-Kohli receiving the backing of selectors to feature in India's squad at 2024 T20 WC). Now that you have included both these players against Afghanistan, it means there has been a massive change in the selectors' thinking. They feel they need experience for the World Cup. That's why Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have made a comeback. There is another thing. Until now, the selectors had shown faith in Hardik Pandya as a captain but questions are being raised because of Hardik Pandya's injury. That's why the selectors have gone back to Rohit Sharma to bring stability, both as a captain and a batter." Also read: All signs suggest Rohit Sharma will lead India in T20 WC, says former player Kris Srikkanth Both Rohit and Kohli will be eager to make a strong statement in the upcoming three T20Is versus Afghanistan, which gets underway on Jan 11 (Thursday) in Mohali. India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar

Ind vs Afg T20Is: Ex-Indian stumper on why BCCI selectors have backed Rohit Sharma as India captain

With India’s squad selection announcement for the home T20I series against Afghanistan just around the corner, the BCCI selectors face a dilemma over naming a captain and the squad around. Considering both captain candidates (Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav) are recovering from respective injuries, the selection committee is undecided between picking a new skipper (looking at the future) and recalling veteran Rohit Sharma for the upcoming series.

Per the latest reports, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has several factors to consider while picking the squad for Afghanistan T20Is. They have a choice to make between looking at preparing (the final 15) for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup (in June in the West Indies and the USA) or naming a mix of experienced and younger players for this series and waiting for the IPL 2024 to end to finalise team for the marquee event.

Following the conclusion of the South Africa series, which ended with India winning their maiden Test at the Newlands in Cape Town, Cricbuzz reported that the board’s top brass approached veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli about their plans for the T20Is – to which both have agreed for a return to the side for the first time in more than a year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-and-england-must-share-its-wealth-with-other-nations-to-save-tests-urges-mike-baird-676829">Cricket's 'Big 3' must share its wealth with other nations to help sustain and grow Tests - Mike Baird</a>

While the selection committee’s mood is leaning towards picking a team for the future – with Shubman Gill likely to lead in everyone’s absence, the selectors are aware of Rohit Sharma’s credentials as a captain, especially in the white-ball format.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as things stand, chief selector Agarkar is in South Africa with colleagues Shiv Sundar Das and Salil Ankola and will join Subrata Banerjee and S Sharath in India to take a final call on this. Rahul Dravid, the head coach, will have a crucial role to play in this.

<h2>Pandya to return during IPL 2024</h2>

The stand-in captain in the T20Is, Hardik Pandya, suffered an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. Though he was expected to get fit in time for the Afghanistan series, Pandya will now return during IPL 2024, starting on March 22.&nbsp;

Following the conclusion of the home World Cup, IPL franchise Mumbai Indians roped in Pandya (during the trade) and named him the new captain for the upcoming season. 
Pandya’s teammate, Suryakumar Yadav, is also out with an injury and will take around a month to recover.&nbsp;

With India’s squad selection announcement for the home T20I series against Afghanistan just around the corner, the BCCI selectors face a dilemma over naming a captain and the squad around.

With India’s squad selection announcement for the home T20I series against Afghanistan just around the corner, the BCCI selectors face a dilemma over naming a captain and the squad around. Considering both captain candidates (Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav) are recovering from respective injuries, the selection committee is undecided between picking a new skipper (looking at the future) and recalling veteran Rohit Sharma for the upcoming series. Per the latest reports, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has several factors to consider while picking the squad for Afghanistan T20Is. They have a choice to make between looking at preparing (the final 15) for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup (in June in the West Indies and the USA) or naming a mix of experienced and younger players for this series and waiting for the IPL 2024 to end to finalise team for the marquee event. Following the conclusion of the South Africa series, which ended with India winning their maiden Test at the Newlands in Cape Town, Cricbuzz reported that the board’s top brass approached veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli about their plans for the T20Is – to which both have agreed for a return to the side for the first time in more than a year. ALSO READ: Cricket's 'Big 3' must share its wealth with other nations to help sustain and grow Tests - Mike Baird While the selection committee’s mood is leaning towards picking a team for the future – with Shubman Gill likely to lead in everyone’s absence, the selectors are aware of Rohit Sharma’s credentials as a captain, especially in the white-ball format. Meanwhile, as things stand, chief selector Agarkar is in South Africa with colleagues Shiv Sundar Das and Salil Ankola and will join Subrata Banerjee and S Sharath in India to take a final call on this. Rahul Dravid, the head coach, will have a crucial role to play in this. Pandya to return during IPL 2024 The stand-in captain in the T20Is, Hardik Pandya, suffered an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. Though he was expected to get fit in time for the Afghanistan series, Pandya will now return during IPL 2024, starting on March 22. Following the conclusion of the home World Cup, IPL franchise Mumbai Indians roped in Pandya (during the trade) and named him the new captain for the upcoming season. Pandya’s teammate, Suryakumar Yadav, is also out with an injury and will take around a month to recover.

IND vs AFG T20Is: BCCI face selection dilemma as captain candidates remain unavailable

In the latest development surrounding headline-maker Hardik Pandya, the India all-rounder will miss the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan and return during IPL 2024.&nbsp;

Per the latest reports, Hardik still hasn’t recovered from the ankle injury (sustained during the Bangladesh game in the World Cup 2023) and thus will remain out of contention from the home series against Afghanistan.

Pandya is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy. Earlier, the BCCI, in consultation with the NCA doctors, penned an 18-week high-performance programme for Pandya, ensuring his match fitness with an eye on the T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean next year.

Although no official word on the same is out yet, per Sports Tak and sources close to the information, Pandya will sit out of the Afghanistan series starting January 11 in Mohali. India will play three T20Is, with the remaining two scheduled on January 14 and 17, respectively.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-been-blocked-from-everywhere-shikhar-dhawans-teary-eyed-birthday-post-for-son-zoravar-673942">‘I’ve been blocked from everywhere…’ - Shikhar Dhawan's teary-eyed birthday post for son Zoravar</a>

Meanwhile, with A-Listers like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli unlikely to feature in the Afghanistan series, Hardik – the stand-in captain in T20Is, was expected to lead. With him being out now, the BCCI’s selection committee might reappoint star batter Suryakumar Yadav (who captained during the home T20Is vs Australia) as the captain for the series.

<h2>Hardik to return during IPL 2024</h2>

Recently appointed as the new captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise, replacing veteran Rohit Sharma from the post, Hardik is likely to regain full fitness ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, starting around March 20, 2024.

Pandya will lead the new-look Mumbai Indians team that returned with reasonable purchases in a recently concluded mini-auction in Dubai.&nbsp;

<h3>Players MI bought at the IPL 2024 mini-auction –</h3>

Gerald Coetzee (Rs. 5 crores), Dilshan Madushanka (Rs. 4.60 crores), Shreyas Gopal (Rs. 20 lakhs), Nuwan Thushara (Rs. 4.80 crores), Naman Dhir (Rs. 20 lakhs), Anshul Kamboj (Rs. 20 lakhs), Mohammad Nabi (Rs. 1.5 crores) and Shivalik Sharma (Rs. 20 lakhs)

In the latest development surrounding headline-maker Hardik Pandya, the India all-rounder will miss the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan and return during IPL 2024.

In the latest development surrounding headline-maker Hardik Pandya, the India all-rounder will miss the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan and return during IPL 2024. Per the latest reports, Hardik still hasn’t recovered from the ankle injury (sustained during the Bangladesh game in the World Cup 2023) and thus will remain out of contention from the home series against Afghanistan. Pandya is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy. Earlier, the BCCI, in consultation with the NCA doctors, penned an 18-week high-performance programme for Pandya, ensuring his match fitness with an eye on the T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean next year. Although no official word on the same is out yet, per Sports Tak and sources close to the information, Pandya will sit out of the Afghanistan series starting January 11 in Mohali. India will play three T20Is, with the remaining two scheduled on January 14 and 17, respectively. ALSO READ: ‘I’ve been blocked from everywhere…’ - Shikhar Dhawan's teary-eyed birthday post for son Zoravar Meanwhile, with A-Listers like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli unlikely to feature in the Afghanistan series, Hardik – the stand-in captain in T20Is, was expected to lead. With him being out now, the BCCI’s selection committee might reappoint star batter Suryakumar Yadav (who captained during the home T20Is vs Australia) as the captain for the series. Hardik to return during IPL 2024 Recently appointed as the new captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise, replacing veteran Rohit Sharma from the post, Hardik is likely to regain full fitness ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, starting around March 20, 2024. Pandya will lead the new-look Mumbai Indians team that returned with reasonable purchases in a recently concluded mini-auction in Dubai. Players MI bought at the IPL 2024 mini-auction – Gerald Coetzee (Rs. 5 crores), Dilshan Madushanka (Rs. 4.60 crores), Shreyas Gopal (Rs. 20 lakhs), Nuwan Thushara (Rs. 4.80 crores), Naman Dhir (Rs. 20 lakhs), Anshul Kamboj (Rs. 20 lakhs), Mohammad Nabi (Rs. 1.5 crores) and Shivalik Sharma (Rs. 20 lakhs)

Blow to India as Hardik Pandya to miss Afghanistan T20Is, to return during IPL 2024 - Reports

Star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya could miss the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan as the Men in Blue prepare for their first limited-overs outing of 2024. Hardik's chances of playing in the latest Indian Premier League (IPL) season also seems to be in doldrums&nbsp;due the&nbsp;ankle injury he suffered&nbsp;during the ODI World Cup contest against Bangladesh. If the news is confirmed, it could be a big jolt for Mumbai Indians, who recently announced Hardik as their new captain of the mega-rich tournament.

<h2>Hardik to miss Afghanistan series?</h2>

According to a report by PTI&nbsp;on Saturday (Dec 23), Hardik is all but done for the Afghanistan T20I series, where he was expected to lead the side. It is reported that he won’t be 100 percent fit for the series and selectors are likely to give the captaincy&nbsp;to Suryakumar Yadav for the three-match series which starts on 11 January 2024.

However, with Suryakumar also injured during the South Africa series, the management might turn to Jasprit Bumrah (if available) or Shubman Gill to lead the side in absence of the senior members like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bangladesh-bowl-out-kiwis-for-98-runs-in-third-odi-for-maiden-win-in-new-zealand-672743">Bangladesh bowl out Kiwis for 98 runs in third ODI for maiden win in New Zealand</a>

Hardik got injured while&nbsp;bowling against Bangladesh in the ODI World Cup contest in Pune on October 19. This forced him to miss the rest of the tournament with Prasidh Krishna being called on as a replacement.

The injury was also a blessing in disguise for India as it prompted team management to include Mohammed Shami in the Playing XI, having missed all four matches before Pandya’s injury. Shami would later scalp 24 wickets in the tournament, the most by any bowler despite missing the first four matches of the ODI World Cup.

According to medical reports, the series on home turf comes early for the all-rounder who has enjoyed a stellar revival with the Indian side in the last 20 months. While Rohit still remains India’s permanent captain across all formats, he has not played in the T20Is for India since November 2022 when the Men in Blue&nbsp;lost the T20 World Cup semifinal to England.

Hardik is regarded as the next potential captain of the Indian team in the T20I format&nbsp;and will now look to step up his recovery with an eye on the IPL 2024 season with the Mumbai Indians.

Star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya could miss the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan as the Men in Blue prepare for their first limited-overs outing of 2024.

Star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya could miss the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan as the Men in Blue prepare for their first limited-overs outing of 2024. Hardik's chances of playing in the latest Indian Premier League (IPL) season also seems to be in doldrums due the ankle injury he suffered during the ODI World Cup contest against Bangladesh. If the news is confirmed, it could be a big jolt for Mumbai Indians, who recently announced Hardik as their new captain of the mega-rich tournament. Hardik to miss Afghanistan series? According to a report by PTI on Saturday (Dec 23), Hardik is all but done for the Afghanistan T20I series, where he was expected to lead the side. It is reported that he won’t be 100 percent fit for the series and selectors are likely to give the captaincy to Suryakumar Yadav for the three-match series which starts on 11 January 2024. However, with Suryakumar also injured during the South Africa series, the management might turn to Jasprit Bumrah (if available) or Shubman Gill to lead the side in absence of the senior members like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. ALSO READ | Bangladesh bowl out Kiwis for 98 runs in third ODI for maiden win in New Zealand Hardik got injured while bowling against Bangladesh in the ODI World Cup contest in Pune on October 19. This forced him to miss the rest of the tournament with Prasidh Krishna being called on as a replacement. The injury was also a blessing in disguise for India as it prompted team management to include Mohammed Shami in the Playing XI, having missed all four matches before Pandya’s injury. Shami would later scalp 24 wickets in the tournament, the most by any bowler despite missing the first four matches of the ODI World Cup. According to medical reports, the series on home turf comes early for the all-rounder who has enjoyed a stellar revival with the Indian side in the last 20 months. While Rohit still remains India’s permanent captain across all formats, he has not played in the T20Is for India since November 2022 when the Men in Blue lost the T20 World Cup semifinal to England. Hardik is regarded as the next potential captain of the Indian team in the T20I format and will now look to step up his recovery with an eye on the IPL 2024 season with the Mumbai Indians.

Hardik Pandya likely to miss Afghanistan series in Jan due to ankle strain; doubtful for Mumbai Indians in IPL

Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time.

Jayawardene addressed the outrage from fans that came with this decision, saying while it was not easy in the first place, this call was necessary&nbsp;to look at the franchise’s future.

Speaking with Jio Cinema in an exclusive chat at the sidelines of the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai, Jayawardene said, "It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It's fair on the fans as well (to react). I think everyone is emotional, and we have to respect that as well. But, at the same time, as a franchise, you have to make those decisions.”&nbsp;

Commenting on having Rohit Sharma (as a pure batter) in the dressing room, Mahela said the India great is there to guide the next generation, as he has been brilliant during his captaincy tenure for the franchise.

"Having Rohit in the team, on and off the field to guide the next generation is very important for us. He has been absolutely brilliant. I am sure he will be part of the legacy who will guide that through," Jayawardene affirmed.

Sharing his thoughts on appointing Pandya as the captain, Mahela said this might have come a bit early (for the fans), but this was the decision they had to take at some point.

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"Probably, everyone in their eyes will think it is too soon, but it is a decision we had to make at some point," Jayawardene explained.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, having played for the Mumbai Indians since his IPL debut before shifting bases to Gujarat Titans for a couple of seasons, Pandya is aware of the dressing room environment at the MI, which would help him gel with the players and create his team.&nbsp;

"Hardik (Pandya) has been in the dressing room for quite some time, so that's nothing new. We know what he brings in as an all-rounder. It will be something different with his experience of leading the team at Gujarat, so, it is an opportunity to build on that," Jayawardene added.

<h2>MI’s buys at IPL 2024 Auction</h2>

Unlike other teams, Mumbai deployed a conservative approach in picking players at the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai.&nbsp;

Among all the buys, the most expensive was South African seamer Gerald Coetzee, bought for INR 5 crore.

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𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭 
T̵E̵Z̵ ̵T̵E̵E̵K̵H̵I̵ ̵M̵I̵R̵C̵H̵ ✅ 
B̵U̵L̵L̵'̵S̵-̵E̵Y̵E̵ ✅ 
A̵F̵G̵H̵A̵N̵ ̵J̵A̵L̵E̵B̵I̵ ✅ 
. 
. 
. 
 
And many more. We are ready for 𝐈𝐏𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/f63PpSy24x">pic.twitter.com/f63PpSy24x</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1737159694379331918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Besides, new additions to the MI family are - Dilshan Madushanka (INR 4.60 crore), Shreyas Gopal (INR 20 lakh), Nuwan Thushara (INR 4.80 crore), Naman Dhir (INR 20 lakh), Anshul Kamboj (INR 20 lakh), Mohammad Nabi (INR 1.5 crore) and Shivalik Sharma (INR 20 lakh).

Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time.

Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time. Jayawardene addressed the outrage from fans that came with this decision, saying while it was not easy in the first place, this call was necessary to look at the franchise’s future. Speaking with Jio Cinema in an exclusive chat at the sidelines of the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai, Jayawardene said, "It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It's fair on the fans as well (to react). I think everyone is emotional, and we have to respect that as well. But, at the same time, as a franchise, you have to make those decisions.” Commenting on having Rohit Sharma (as a pure batter) in the dressing room, Mahela said the India great is there to guide the next generation, as he has been brilliant during his captaincy tenure for the franchise. "Having Rohit in the team, on and off the field to guide the next generation is very important for us. He has been absolutely brilliant. I am sure he will be part of the legacy who will guide that through," Jayawardene affirmed. Sharing his thoughts on appointing Pandya as the captain, Mahela said this might have come a bit early (for the fans), but this was the decision they had to take at some point. ALSO READ: England level T20I series against West Indies as Phil Salt smashes records with 2nd T20I ton "Probably, everyone in their eyes will think it is too soon, but it is a decision we had to make at some point," Jayawardene explained. Meanwhile, having played for the Mumbai Indians since his IPL debut before shifting bases to Gujarat Titans for a couple of seasons, Pandya is aware of the dressing room environment at the MI, which would help him gel with the players and create his team. "Hardik (Pandya) has been in the dressing room for quite some time, so that's nothing new. We know what he brings in as an all-rounder. It will be something different with his experience of leading the team at Gujarat, so, it is an opportunity to build on that," Jayawardene added. MI’s buys at IPL 2024 Auction Unlike other teams, Mumbai deployed a conservative approach in picking players at the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai. Among all the buys, the most expensive was South African seamer Gerald Coetzee, bought for INR 5 crore. 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭 T̵E̵Z̵ ̵T̵E̵E̵K̵H̵I̵ ̵M̵I̵R̵C̵H̵ ✅ B̵U̵L̵L̵'̵S̵-̵E̵Y̵E̵ ✅ A̵F̵G̵H̵A̵N̵ ̵J̵A̵L̵E̵B̵I̵ ✅ . . . And many more. We are ready for 𝐈𝐏𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 💙#OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/f63PpSy24x — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 19, 2023 × Besides, new additions to the MI family are - Dilshan Madushanka (INR 4.60 crore), Shreyas Gopal (INR 20 lakh), Nuwan Thushara (INR 4.80 crore), Naman Dhir (INR 20 lakh), Anshul Kamboj (INR 20 lakh), Mohammad Nabi (INR 1.5 crore) and Shivalik Sharma (INR 20 lakh).

IPL 2024 - Replacing Rohit with Pandya as Mumbai Indians captain was tough and emotional: Mahela Jayawardene

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard&nbsp;in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational development on Friday, Hardik was announced as the new skipper while Rohit Sharma stepped down after a successful spell as the leader. According to Manjrekar, there should not be too much "sentimental"&nbsp;thinking about the captaincy change ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

<h2>Manjrekar opines on Pandya’s new role</h2>

“One should not be thinking sentimentally or emotionally about Rohit Sharma. I think it’s a good move as Hardik Pandya is a proven leader and has had a great run. So, he is your in-form T20 captain and player,” Manjrekar said while speaking during the India vs South Africa contest.

“Rohit has been around for a long time. So, it makes a lot of cricketing sense to have somebody like Hardik,” he stated.

The announcement on Friday came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. Pandya, on the flip side, will look to succeed the successful stint of Rohit having led Gujarat Titans in the previous two seasons. Interestingly, his first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Hardik also acts as deputy to Rohit in the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-ishan-kishan-withdraws-from-test-squad-due-to-personal-reasons-ks-bharat-roped-in-as-replacement-670562">SA vs IND: Ishan Kishan withdraws from Test squad due to personal reasons; KS Bharat roped in as replacement</a>

<h2>Rohit’s stint as captain</h2>

Rohit took over the captaincy in 2013 from Ricky Ponting at the midway point of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. Later that year, Rohit also helped Mumbai beat Rajasthan Royals in the final of the Champions League with Sachin Tendulkar playing his final competitive match in Delhi. He then led Mumbai to success in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming&nbsp;the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Earlier, MS Dhoni joined Rohit Sharma as the joint-best successful captain in the IPL history with five titles.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15).

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational development on Friday, Hardik was announced as the new skipper while Rohit Sharma stepped down after a successful spell as the leader. According to Manjrekar, there should not be too much "sentimental" thinking about the captaincy change ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Manjrekar opines on Pandya’s new role “One should not be thinking sentimentally or emotionally about Rohit Sharma. I think it’s a good move as Hardik Pandya is a proven leader and has had a great run. So, he is your in-form T20 captain and player,” Manjrekar said while speaking during the India vs South Africa contest. “Rohit has been around for a long time. So, it makes a lot of cricketing sense to have somebody like Hardik,” he stated. The announcement on Friday came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. Pandya, on the flip side, will look to succeed the successful stint of Rohit having led Gujarat Titans in the previous two seasons. Interestingly, his first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Hardik also acts as deputy to Rohit in the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury. ALSO READ | SA vs IND: Ishan Kishan withdraws from Test squad due to personal reasons; KS Bharat roped in as replacement Rohit’s stint as captain Rohit took over the captaincy in 2013 from Ricky Ponting at the midway point of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. Later that year, Rohit also helped Mumbai beat Rajasthan Royals in the final of the Champions League with Sachin Tendulkar playing his final competitive match in Delhi. He then led Mumbai to success in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Earlier, MS Dhoni joined Rohit Sharma as the joint-best successful captain in the IPL history with five titles.

IPL 2024: 'One should not be thinking sentimentally', Sanjay Manjrekar on Pandya's new role at MI

On Friday (Dec 15), the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, bringing curtains on Rohit Sharma's successful captaincy era (comprising five IPL and one Champions League trophy). Hardik rejoined his first-ever IPL franchise on the IPL retention deadline day on Nov 26. He moved from Gujarat Titans (GT), where he led them to the championship in their inaugural season in 2022 and in the final in the 2023 edition, to his old franchise and many were speculating&nbsp;such a move by MI. However, after the announcement, the franchise has been facing a lot of backlash with many not impressed with the decision.&nbsp;

Many former cricketers have reacted to Hardik replacing Rohit as the MI skipper. Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar recently joined the bandwagon and stated that the decision will only benefit MI.

Speaking to Star Sports, Little Master Gavaskar said,&nbsp;"We shouldn't go into rights and wrongs. But, the decision they have taken is for the benefit of the team. In the last two years, Rohit's contribution, even with the bat, has dipped a little bit. Earlier, he used to score big, but in the last two years&nbsp;they finished No. 9 or No. 10 the year before last year and in the last year they qualified for the playoffs.&nbsp;But we missed seeing the mojo in Rohit Sharma that we used to see in the previous few years. Maybe, he was a little tired because of playing continuous cricket, he was a little tired because of captaincy, leading India and the franchise."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-v-ind-sai-sudharsan-feels-blessed-to-contribute-in-winning-cause-pens-heartfelt-note-after-odi-debut-670758">SA v IND: Sai Sudharsan feels ‘blessed’ to contribute to winning cause, pens heartfelt note after ODI debut</a>

He added, "I feel that the decision, they have kept in mind that Hardik is a young captain who has produced results. Hardik has led Gujarat to the finals twice, and he led them to the title in 2022. I think they have made him captain by considering all this.&nbsp;At times, you need fresh thinking. Hardk brings in that fresh thinking. I think the decision will only benefit Mumbai Indians, it will not deter them."

Under Rohit, MI became a force to be reckoned with and won the IPL in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020 whereas they also won the now-defunct CLT20 title in 2013. It will be interesting to see how the Mumbai franchise moves forward under Hardik, who tasted huge success as GT's captain in 2022-23.

On Friday (Dec 15), the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, bringing curtains on Rohit Sharma's successful captaincy era (comprising five IPL and one Champions League trophy).

On Friday (Dec 15), the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, bringing curtains on Rohit Sharma's successful captaincy era (comprising five IPL and one Champions League trophy). Hardik rejoined his first-ever IPL franchise on the IPL retention deadline day on Nov 26. He moved from Gujarat Titans (GT), where he led them to the championship in their inaugural season in 2022 and in the final in the 2023 edition, to his old franchise and many were speculating such a move by MI. However, after the announcement, the franchise has been facing a lot of backlash with many not impressed with the decision. Many former cricketers have reacted to Hardik replacing Rohit as the MI skipper. Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar recently joined the bandwagon and stated that the decision will only benefit MI. Speaking to Star Sports, Little Master Gavaskar said, "We shouldn't go into rights and wrongs. But, the decision they have taken is for the benefit of the team. In the last two years, Rohit's contribution, even with the bat, has dipped a little bit. Earlier, he used to score big, but in the last two years they finished No. 9 or No. 10 the year before last year and in the last year they qualified for the playoffs. But we missed seeing the mojo in Rohit Sharma that we used to see in the previous few years. Maybe, he was a little tired because of playing continuous cricket, he was a little tired because of captaincy, leading India and the franchise." Also read: SA v IND: Sai Sudharsan feels ‘blessed’ to contribute to winning cause, pens heartfelt note after ODI debut He added, "I feel that the decision, they have kept in mind that Hardik is a young captain who has produced results. Hardik has led Gujarat to the finals twice, and he led them to the title in 2022. I think they have made him captain by considering all this. At times, you need fresh thinking. Hardk brings in that fresh thinking. I think the decision will only benefit Mumbai Indians, it will not deter them." Under Rohit, MI became a force to be reckoned with and won the IPL in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020 whereas they also won the now-defunct CLT20 title in 2013. It will be interesting to see how the Mumbai franchise moves forward under Hardik, who tasted huge success as GT's captain in 2022-23.

IPL 2024: Hardik replacing Rohit as MI captain will benefit franchise, feels Little Master Sunil Gavaskar

Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians paid a fitting tribute to Rohit Sharma as he stepped down from his captaincy role on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational announcement made by the franchise on Friday, Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new skipper with the auctions for the new season around the corner. Rohit had a successful stint as the captain of the franchise and led them to five IPL titles and one Champions League title.

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Ro, 
In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞. In victories &amp; defeats, you asked us to 𝘚𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦. 10 years &amp; 6 trophies later, here we are. Our 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧, your legacy will be etched in Blue &amp; Gold. Thank you, 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐎💙 <a href="https://t.co/KDIPCkIVop">pic.twitter.com/KDIPCkIVop</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1735647575552770379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>MI’s tribute to Rohit Sharma</h2>

“Ro, In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to believe. In victories &amp; defeats, you asked us to smile. 10 years &amp; 6 trophies later, here we are. Our forever captain, your legacy will be etched in Blue &amp; Gold. Thank you, captain RO,” Mumbai Indians’ social media handle read.

The 35-year-old joined MI in 2011 when he was up for auction having been released by Deccan Charges. His move to MI proved to be one of the most successful stories in the history of IPL.&nbsp;Adding to his 2009 IPL success with Deccan, Rohit went on to win five more titles with the Mumbai-based franchise. He was the most decorated player in history with six titles until Ambati Rayudu joined him in 2023 with six titles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tier-2-tournament-similar-to-ipl-set-for-launch-in-2024-bcci-outlines-window-for-proposed-t10-league-669987">‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league</a>

<h2>Rohit’s tenure as captain of MI</h2>

Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title.&nbsp;He then led Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat.

Hardik will now have a tough task in taking the captaincy baton as he follows in the footsteps of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting. He, however, comes with a proven pedigree having led Gujarat Titans to back-to-back finals in 2022 and 2023 respectively. His first year saw him lead GT to the IPL title in their debut season and will now be tasked to repeat the achievement.

Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians paid a fitting tribute to Rohit Sharma as he stepped down from his captaincy role on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational announcement made by the franchise on Friday, Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new skipper with the auctions for the new season around the corner.

Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians paid a fitting tribute to Rohit Sharma as he stepped down from his captaincy role on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational announcement made by the franchise on Friday, Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new skipper with the auctions for the new season around the corner. Rohit had a successful stint as the captain of the franchise and led them to five IPL titles and one Champions League title. Ro, In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞. In victories & defeats, you asked us to 𝘚𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦. 10 years & 6 trophies later, here we are. Our 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧, your legacy will be etched in Blue & Gold. Thank you, 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐎💙 pic.twitter.com/KDIPCkIVop — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 15, 2023 × MI’s tribute to Rohit Sharma “Ro, In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to believe. In victories & defeats, you asked us to smile. 10 years & 6 trophies later, here we are. Our forever captain, your legacy will be etched in Blue & Gold. Thank you, captain RO,” Mumbai Indians’ social media handle read. The 35-year-old joined MI in 2011 when he was up for auction having been released by Deccan Charges. His move to MI proved to be one of the most successful stories in the history of IPL. Adding to his 2009 IPL success with Deccan, Rohit went on to win five more titles with the Mumbai-based franchise. He was the most decorated player in history with six titles until Ambati Rayudu joined him in 2023 with six titles. ALSO READ | ‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league Rohit’s tenure as captain of MI Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. He then led Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat. Hardik will now have a tough task in taking the captaincy baton as he follows in the footsteps of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting. He, however, comes with a proven pedigree having led Gujarat Titans to back-to-back finals in 2022 and 2023 respectively. His first year saw him lead GT to the IPL title in their debut season and will now be tasked to repeat the achievement.

Watch: Mumbai Indians pay tribute to Rohit Sharma after successful stint as skipper

Hardik Pandya is all set to lead Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a major overhaul of the franchise. Hardik, who returned to Mumbai on the deadline day of the trade window, will take over from Rohit Sharma, who successfully led the franchise to five IPL titles during his stint as the skipper of the side. He now joins the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting to lead the record IPL champions.

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To new beginnings. Good luck, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaptainPandya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaptainPandya</a> 💙 <a href="https://t.co/qRH9ABz1PY">pic.twitter.com/qRH9ABz1PY</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1735643112159031604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Panyda's reign at Mumbai Indians</h2>

The announcement on Friday (Dec 15) came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. While Pandya having led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the previous two seasons will now look help his new team,&nbsp;Mumbai Indians, clinch the title.

Interestingly, Pandaya's&nbsp;first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Pandaya also acts as deputy to Rohit on the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury.

“It is part of legacy building and staying true to the MI philosophy of being future-ready. Mumbai Indians have always been blessed with exceptional leadership right from Sachin to Harbhajan and Ricky to Rohit, who while contributing to the immediate success have always had an eye on strengthening the team for the future. It is in keeping with this philosophy that Hardik Pandya will assume captaincy of Mumbai Indians for the IPL 2024 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We express our gratitude to Rohit Sharma for his exceptional leadership; his tenure as the captain of the Mumbai Indians since 2013 has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership has not only brought unparalleled success to the team but has also solidified his place as one of the finest captains in the history of the IPL,” Mahela Jayawardene, Global Head of Performance, Mumbai Indians said in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tier-2-tournament-similar-to-ipl-set-for-launch-in-2024-bcci-outlines-window-for-proposed-t10-league-669987">‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league</a>

<h2>Rohit’s stint as captain</h2>

Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title.&nbsp;

He then lead Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni&nbsp;in 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth&nbsp;time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat

Hardik Pandya is all set to lead Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a major overhaul of the franchise. Hardik, who returned to Mumbai on the deadline day of the trade window, will take over from Rohit Sharma, who successfully led the franchise to five IPL titles during his stint as the skipper of the side.

Hardik Pandya is all set to lead Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a major overhaul of the franchise. Hardik, who returned to Mumbai on the deadline day of the trade window, will take over from Rohit Sharma, who successfully led the franchise to five IPL titles during his stint as the skipper of the side. He now joins the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting to lead the record IPL champions. To new beginnings. Good luck, #CaptainPandya 💙 pic.twitter.com/qRH9ABz1PY — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 15, 2023 × Panyda's reign at Mumbai Indians The announcement on Friday (Dec 15) came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. While Pandya having led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the previous two seasons will now look help his new team, Mumbai Indians, clinch the title. Interestingly, Pandaya's first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Pandaya also acts as deputy to Rohit on the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury. “It is part of legacy building and staying true to the MI philosophy of being future-ready. Mumbai Indians have always been blessed with exceptional leadership right from Sachin to Harbhajan and Ricky to Rohit, who while contributing to the immediate success have always had an eye on strengthening the team for the future. It is in keeping with this philosophy that Hardik Pandya will assume captaincy of Mumbai Indians for the IPL 2024 season. “We express our gratitude to Rohit Sharma for his exceptional leadership; his tenure as the captain of the Mumbai Indians since 2013 has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership has not only brought unparalleled success to the team but has also solidified his place as one of the finest captains in the history of the IPL,” Mahela Jayawardene, Global Head of Performance, Mumbai Indians said in a statement. ALSO READ | ‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league Rohit’s stint as captain Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. He then lead Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni in 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat

IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya to take over captaincy from Rohit Sharma of Mumbai Indians in major overhaul

The uncertainty around Rohit Sharma’s T20I future as a cricketer and captain has kept everyone talking. With the next major ICC event – the 2024 T20 World Cup just seven months away, there is no clarity on who will lead India into the tournament, scheduled in the West Indies and the USA in June next year.

Though some reports have suggested that Pandya – the stand-in T20I captain, could take over the reins from Rohit, others claim that BCCI and re-elected head coach Rahul Dravid want Rohit to continue leading till the 2024 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Speaking on the same lines on the sidelines of the WPL 2024 Auction in Mumbai on Saturday, BCCI secretary Jay Shah said there is nothing to confirm yet but shed light on when Hardik Pandya can return to India colours.

“What is the need to have clarity right now? It (T20 World Cup) is starting in June, we have the IPL before that and the series against Afghanistan,” Shah said on the sidelines of the Women’s Premier League auction.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-dates-venue-for-2024-womens-premier-league-668228">BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms dates, venue for 2024 Women’s Premier League</a>

The ace India all-rounder got injured during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. With the board and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) planning an 18-week high-performance programme to monitor his workload, Shah revealed Pandya could return as early as during the Afghanistan series in January.

“We are monitoring it on a day-to-day basis. He is at NCA only, he is working very hard, and we will let you know in due course the moment he is fit. He could be fit before the Afghanistan series also,” Shah added.

<h2>India gear for T20 World Cup</h2>

Following the 50-over World Cup at home, which India failed to win (losing to Australia in the final), the Men in Blue have their eyes set on next year’s T20 World Cup. Though who would lead India is probably the discussion for another day, the board and selectors have little time to determine the best players for the shortest format.

With India scheduled to face just South Africa and Afghanistan (six T20Is in total) in the lead-up to the World Cup, concerns within the board about picking the right team are growing with each passing day.

Meanwhile, the top T20I batter from India, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team in South Africa and KL Rahul will captain in the three-match ODIs. Rohit Sharma will return to captain in the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.&nbsp;

The uncertainty around Rohit Sharma’s T20I future as a cricketer and captain has kept everyone talking. With the next major ICC event – the 2024 T20 World Cup just seven months away, there is no clarity on who will lead India into the tournament, scheduled in the West Indies and the USA in June next year.

The uncertainty around Rohit Sharma’s T20I future as a cricketer and captain has kept everyone talking. With the next major ICC event – the 2024 T20 World Cup just seven months away, there is no clarity on who will lead India into the tournament, scheduled in the West Indies and the USA in June next year. Though some reports have suggested that Pandya – the stand-in T20I captain, could take over the reins from Rohit, others claim that BCCI and re-elected head coach Rahul Dravid want Rohit to continue leading till the 2024 T20 World Cup. Speaking on the same lines on the sidelines of the WPL 2024 Auction in Mumbai on Saturday, BCCI secretary Jay Shah said there is nothing to confirm yet but shed light on when Hardik Pandya can return to India colours. “What is the need to have clarity right now? It (T20 World Cup) is starting in June, we have the IPL before that and the series against Afghanistan,” Shah said on the sidelines of the Women’s Premier League auction. ALSO READ: BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms dates, venue for 2024 Women’s Premier League The ace India all-rounder got injured during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. With the board and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) planning an 18-week high-performance programme to monitor his workload, Shah revealed Pandya could return as early as during the Afghanistan series in January. “We are monitoring it on a day-to-day basis. He is at NCA only, he is working very hard, and we will let you know in due course the moment he is fit. He could be fit before the Afghanistan series also,” Shah added. India gear for T20 World Cup Following the 50-over World Cup at home, which India failed to win (losing to Australia in the final), the Men in Blue have their eyes set on next year’s T20 World Cup. Though who would lead India is probably the discussion for another day, the board and selectors have little time to determine the best players for the shortest format. With India scheduled to face just South Africa and Afghanistan (six T20Is in total) in the lead-up to the World Cup, concerns within the board about picking the right team are growing with each passing day. Meanwhile, the top T20I batter from India, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team in South Africa and KL Rahul will captain in the three-match ODIs. Rohit Sharma will return to captain in the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.

No word on Rohit Sharma’s T20I future but Jay Shah confirms Pandya’s likely return date

India's ace&nbsp;all-rounder Hardik Pandya continues to recover from the ankle injury he suffered during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup. India might have benefited from his absence, with Mohammed Shami coming in and making all the difference till the final; but the hosts missed Pandya’s cool approach on the big day when Australia walked away with their sixth world title.

Having recovered from a back injury earlier, Pandya suffered an unfortunate injury during the marquee event, ruling him out for an indefinite period.&nbsp;

Now, with an&nbsp;eye on the upcoming ICC events, with the T20 World Cup in sight (June 2024), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) have penned an 18-week&nbsp;high-performance programme for Pandya, with the sole purpose of working on how his body reacts to different fitness regimes.

“We speak of workload management. This is precisely what it is all about. Is there a doubt on his ability as a T20 cricketer? No. What we rather need is setting long-term goals and ensuring endurance levels remain up to the mark,” said those privy to the information.

“First, let’s be clear. Pandya’s earlier injury (back) was completely different from the freak injury, or say ‘accident’ he suffered during the Bangladesh game in Pune. There is no relation between the two, and it would be unfair to say he wasn’t in top shape for the World Cup or to suggest that he is injury-prone.”

“He made a successful comeback from the back injury, has been in superb shape, and it was just an unfortunate incident,” the source added.

<h2>Not for the first time</h2>

Besides Pandya, other senior players like Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul had also undergone similar programmes in the past, with everyone returning from lengthy injury layoffs earlier this year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-will-be-indias-x-factor-during-upcoming-sa-test-series-feels-former-pacer-s-sreesanth-666534">Virat Kohli will be India's X-factor during upcoming SA Test series, feels former pacer S Sreesanth</a>

"It is not something new. Shreyas, Bumrah and KL underwent similar programmes during their long injury layoffs, and the routine is designed keeping the next assignments in mind. Say for KL, wicket-keeping, subcontinent heat and everything was taken into account. Similarly, Bumrah was eased into cricket with Ireland T20Is before he went full throttle in the Asia Cup,” the source added.

Meanwhile, the selectors didn’t pick Pandya for South Africa’s white-ball leg as he remains unlikely to appear in the three-match Afghanistan T20Is as well.&nbsp;

With a focus on his fitness heading into the IPL 2024 in March and the T20 World Cup that follows, NCA and the BCCI are prepared to treat Pandya’s workload differently.&nbsp;

India's ace all-rounder Hardik Pandya continues to recover from the ankle injury he suffered during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup. India might have benefited from his absence, with Mohammed Shami coming in and making all the difference till the final; but the hosts missed Pandya’s cool approach on the big day when Australia walked away with their sixth world title.

India's ace all-rounder Hardik Pandya continues to recover from the ankle injury he suffered during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup. India might have benefited from his absence, with Mohammed Shami coming in and making all the difference till the final; but the hosts missed Pandya’s cool approach on the big day when Australia walked away with their sixth world title. Having recovered from a back injury earlier, Pandya suffered an unfortunate injury during the marquee event, ruling him out for an indefinite period. Now, with an eye on the upcoming ICC events, with the T20 World Cup in sight (June 2024), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) have penned an 18-week high-performance programme for Pandya, with the sole purpose of working on how his body reacts to different fitness regimes. “We speak of workload management. This is precisely what it is all about. Is there a doubt on his ability as a T20 cricketer? No. What we rather need is setting long-term goals and ensuring endurance levels remain up to the mark,” said those privy to the information. “First, let’s be clear. Pandya’s earlier injury (back) was completely different from the freak injury, or say ‘accident’ he suffered during the Bangladesh game in Pune. There is no relation between the two, and it would be unfair to say he wasn’t in top shape for the World Cup or to suggest that he is injury-prone.” “He made a successful comeback from the back injury, has been in superb shape, and it was just an unfortunate incident,” the source added. Not for the first time Besides Pandya, other senior players like Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul had also undergone similar programmes in the past, with everyone returning from lengthy injury layoffs earlier this year. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli will be India's X-factor during upcoming SA Test series, feels former pacer S Sreesanth "It is not something new. Shreyas, Bumrah and KL underwent similar programmes during their long injury layoffs, and the routine is designed keeping the next assignments in mind. Say for KL, wicket-keeping, subcontinent heat and everything was taken into account. Similarly, Bumrah was eased into cricket with Ireland T20Is before he went full throttle in the Asia Cup,” the source added. Meanwhile, the selectors didn’t pick Pandya for South Africa’s white-ball leg as he remains unlikely to appear in the three-match Afghanistan T20Is as well. With a focus on his fitness heading into the IPL 2024 in March and the T20 World Cup that follows, NCA and the BCCI are prepared to treat Pandya’s workload differently.

With T20 World Cup on mind, BCCI, NCA pen 18-week high-performance programme for Hardik Pandya

India are set to tour South Africa for an all-format tour, starting on Dec 10. The tour comprises three T20Is and ODIs each and will end with a two-match Test series, early next year. Ahead of the announcement of the squads for the upcoming SA tour, reports have emerged that Suryakumar Yadav is&nbsp;a frontrunner to lead India in T20Is in the African nation. At present, Surya is leading a second-stringed Indian team in the five T20Is versus Australia at home, with the hosts leading 2-1 after three games.&nbsp;

As per a report&nbsp;filed by news agency&nbsp;PTI, Surya is emerging as the top candidate to take charge of the T20I side during the forthcoming tour amid uncertainty over Rohit Sharma&nbsp;and Hardik Pandya's absence due to injury. After India's ODI World Cup final loss, Rohit has been out of action and his continued non-participation from T20Is -- since the last T20 World Cup -- has raised doubts on his future in the format. Certain reports have also indicated that BCCI remains keen to have him as the full-time captain but if he remains reluctant, SKY will lead with no Hardik -- who is still recovering from an ankle injury.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-kohli-were-crying-ashwin-recalls-indias-cwc-2023-final-loss-hails-hitmans-leadership-664588">'Rohit &amp; Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership</a>

"Yes, there remains a question what happens when Hardik comes back but in BCCI, they feel that if Rohit agrees to lead in T20Is, he will lead in the T20 World Cup. In case Rohit doesn't agree then Surya continues as captain for T20Is in South Africa," a BCCI source told the news agency.&nbsp;

Reports have also emerged that Virat Kohli, who also remains out of action following the World Cup heartbreak, is considering taking a break from white-ball formats and will join Team India only for the two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation. The squads for the SA tour are likely to be announced on Thursday (Nov 30).

India are set to tour South Africa for an all-format tour, starting on Dec 10. The tour comprises three T20Is and ODIs each and will end with a two-match Test series, early next year.

India are set to tour South Africa for an all-format tour, starting on Dec 10. The tour comprises three T20Is and ODIs each and will end with a two-match Test series, early next year. Ahead of the announcement of the squads for the upcoming SA tour, reports have emerged that Suryakumar Yadav is a frontrunner to lead India in T20Is in the African nation. At present, Surya is leading a second-stringed Indian team in the five T20Is versus Australia at home, with the hosts leading 2-1 after three games. As per a report filed by news agency PTI, Surya is emerging as the top candidate to take charge of the T20I side during the forthcoming tour amid uncertainty over Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya's absence due to injury. After India's ODI World Cup final loss, Rohit has been out of action and his continued non-participation from T20Is -- since the last T20 World Cup -- has raised doubts on his future in the format. Certain reports have also indicated that BCCI remains keen to have him as the full-time captain but if he remains reluctant, SKY will lead with no Hardik -- who is still recovering from an ankle injury. Also read: 'Rohit & Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership "Yes, there remains a question what happens when Hardik comes back but in BCCI, they feel that if Rohit agrees to lead in T20Is, he will lead in the T20 World Cup. In case Rohit doesn't agree then Surya continues as captain for T20Is in South Africa," a BCCI source told the news agency. Reports have also emerged that Virat Kohli, who also remains out of action following the World Cup heartbreak, is considering taking a break from white-ball formats and will join Team India only for the two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation. The squads for the SA tour are likely to be announced on Thursday (Nov 30).

Suryakumar Yadav to lead India in SA T20Is amid uncertainity over Rohit and Hardik's absence - Reports

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah's cryptic post on Instagram has made a lot of noise. On Tuesday, Bumrah shared a story from his official Instagram handle and wrote, "Silence is sometimes the best answer." His post left fans bewildered and his ardent followers are trying to decipher its meaning amidst rumours and discussions with regard to his professional career. Many feel Bumrah's post is related to Hardik Pandya rejoining Mumbai Indians (MI), after being traded by Gujarat Titans (GT) during the IPL retention deadline day on Sunday (Nov 26).&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has now joined the bandwagon and commented on Bumrah's viral post. Hardik's move to MI is being&nbsp;seen as a strategic move by Mumbai team management, potentially grooming him as Rohit's successor. Thus, many feel Hardik rejoining MI has ended Bumrah's dream of succeeding Rohit. Srikkanth feels Bumrah 'might have regrets and would have been hurt'.

<h2>'He must be feeling he stayed back with MI but the franchise...'</h2>

Srikkanth said in a video on his YouTube channel, "You can't find another cricketer like Jasprit Bumrah. Be it Tests or white-ball cricket, he is one of the best going around. He gave it his all in the World Cup. And as you said, in the 5th Test against England, he was the stand-in Test captain in 2022. He might have regrets. He would have been hurt. He must be feeling that he stayed back with MI but the franchise is now celebrating someone who left and came back. 'You are making him the biggest thing on earth'. He might feel it's not fair."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-already-told-csk-ceo-on-ms-dhoni-turning-up-for-2024-season-663947">'He already told...': CSK CEO on MS Dhoni turning up for 2024 season</a>

"Something, similar happened with Ravindra Jadeja at CSK. But the team management and the captain came in and sorted out everything. In my opinion, what will happen is... I am sure the team management will sit with Pandya, Bumrah, and Rohit and sort out things. As a team only, you can only win championships. I would have been hurt if something like that happened to me. After Hardik Pandya has returned, Bumrah might think, I am from Gujarat, I could have captained that team. I don't know whether it's a lack of communication. Something must have happened. Otherwise, Bumrah, who is such a down-to-earth person... He is a fantastic human being, if he is getting annoyed, obviously, something must have happened," Srikkanth added.

It will be interesting to see how things shape up in the MI camp before the start of the IPL 2024 edition. At present, the team management's focus will be on the forthcoming mini-auction, to be held in Dubai on Dec 19.&nbsp;

MI squad after retention deadline day:

Rohit Sharma (c), Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, N. Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd (from LSG), Hardik Pandya (from GT).

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah's cryptic post on Instagram has made a lot of noise. On Tuesday, Bumrah shared a story from his official Instagram handle and wrote, "Silence is sometimes the best answer.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah's cryptic post on Instagram has made a lot of noise. On Tuesday, Bumrah shared a story from his official Instagram handle and wrote, "Silence is sometimes the best answer." His post left fans bewildered and his ardent followers are trying to decipher its meaning amidst rumours and discussions with regard to his professional career. Many feel Bumrah's post is related to Hardik Pandya rejoining Mumbai Indians (MI), after being traded by Gujarat Titans (GT) during the IPL retention deadline day on Sunday (Nov 26). Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has now joined the bandwagon and commented on Bumrah's viral post. Hardik's move to MI is being seen as a strategic move by Mumbai team management, potentially grooming him as Rohit's successor. Thus, many feel Hardik rejoining MI has ended Bumrah's dream of succeeding Rohit. Srikkanth feels Bumrah 'might have regrets and would have been hurt'. 'He must be feeling he stayed back with MI but the franchise...' Srikkanth said in a video on his YouTube channel, "You can't find another cricketer like Jasprit Bumrah. Be it Tests or white-ball cricket, he is one of the best going around. He gave it his all in the World Cup. And as you said, in the 5th Test against England, he was the stand-in Test captain in 2022. He might have regrets. He would have been hurt. He must be feeling that he stayed back with MI but the franchise is now celebrating someone who left and came back. 'You are making him the biggest thing on earth'. He might feel it's not fair." Also read: 'He already told...': CSK CEO on MS Dhoni turning up for 2024 season "Something, similar happened with Ravindra Jadeja at CSK. But the team management and the captain came in and sorted out everything. In my opinion, what will happen is... I am sure the team management will sit with Pandya, Bumrah, and Rohit and sort out things. As a team only, you can only win championships. I would have been hurt if something like that happened to me. After Hardik Pandya has returned, Bumrah might think, I am from Gujarat, I could have captained that team. I don't know whether it's a lack of communication. Something must have happened. Otherwise, Bumrah, who is such a down-to-earth person... He is a fantastic human being, if he is getting annoyed, obviously, something must have happened," Srikkanth added. It will be interesting to see how things shape up in the MI camp before the start of the IPL 2024 edition. At present, the team management's focus will be on the forthcoming mini-auction, to be held in Dubai on Dec 19. MI squad after retention deadline day: Rohit Sharma (c), Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, N. Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd (from LSG), Hardik Pandya (from GT).

Bumrah may have been hurt by Hardik's transfer to MI: Former India player decodes pacer's cryptic post

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has posted a cryptic story on Instagram, leaving fans puzzled and scrambling to find the meaning behind it. Bumrah's post comes after a rather successful World Cup campaign and a day after the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention window closed.&nbsp;

In the story, Bumrah posted a quote that reads, "Silence is sometimes the best answer", and although nothing concrete can be made out of it, some fans have got down to business to dissect what may have prompted Bumrah to post the story.&nbsp;

Notably, a section of fans believe that Bumrah's story is a reaction to Hardik Pandya's return to Mumbai Indians. With Rohit Sharma at the twilight of his cricketing career, many believed that Bumrah was gearing up to take the captaincy duties of one of the most successful franchises of the tournament.&nbsp;

However, after Pandya's surprise move from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians, Bumrah's plans may have been foiled. Pandya is an IPL-winning captain who nearly defended his crown with GT earlier this year if it wasn't for Chennai Super Kings and Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2023-11/jasprit_bumrah_story_0.png?VersionId=lBuEolFXEFzQAlOCJRkvHRrVjftDgR8." />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1st-t20i-suryakumar-joins-jasprit-bumrah-in-elite-list-after-memorable-captaincy-debut-662409">Also read |&nbsp;Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Suryakumar joins Jasprit Bumrah in ELITE list after memorable captaincy debut</a>

While Bumrah might be a champion bowler and an integral part of MI's success over the last decade or so, he hasn't been tested as a captain. Cricket pundits believe that Pandya's move to MI has been hatched by the upper hierarchy so that the all-rounder can take over from Sharma.&nbsp;

Notably, Bumrah was forced to skip the entire last IPL season due to a back injury. Although the MI pacer has been retained for the upcoming season, he can still be traded to another team as the window for the same closes on December 12, a week prior to the mini-auction.&nbsp;

With captaincy duties up for grabs in other teams, Bumrah might be tempted for a switch.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has posted a cryptic story on Instagram, leaving fans puzzled and scrambling to find the meaning behind it. Bumrah's post comes after a rather successful World Cup campaign and a day after the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention window closed.

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has posted a cryptic story on Instagram, leaving fans puzzled and scrambling to find the meaning behind it. Bumrah's post comes after a rather successful World Cup campaign and a day after the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention window closed. In the story, Bumrah posted a quote that reads, "Silence is sometimes the best answer", and although nothing concrete can be made out of it, some fans have got down to business to dissect what may have prompted Bumrah to post the story. Notably, a section of fans believe that Bumrah's story is a reaction to Hardik Pandya's return to Mumbai Indians. With Rohit Sharma at the twilight of his cricketing career, many believed that Bumrah was gearing up to take the captaincy duties of one of the most successful franchises of the tournament. However, after Pandya's surprise move from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians, Bumrah's plans may have been foiled. Pandya is an IPL-winning captain who nearly defended his crown with GT earlier this year if it wasn't for Chennai Super Kings and Ravindra Jadeja. Also read | Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: Suryakumar joins Jasprit Bumrah in ELITE list after memorable captaincy debut While Bumrah might be a champion bowler and an integral part of MI's success over the last decade or so, he hasn't been tested as a captain. Cricket pundits believe that Pandya's move to MI has been hatched by the upper hierarchy so that the all-rounder can take over from Sharma. Notably, Bumrah was forced to skip the entire last IPL season due to a back injury. Although the MI pacer has been retained for the upcoming season, he can still be traded to another team as the window for the same closes on December 12, a week prior to the mini-auction. With captaincy duties up for grabs in other teams, Bumrah might be tempted for a switch. (With inputs from agencies)

'Possible rift?': Jasprit Bumrah's cryptic Instagram post causes stir, puzzles fans

The ODI World Cup 2023 edition ended less than two weeks back&nbsp;in India. Rohit Sharma-led India lost the final to Australia as the Men in Yellow clinched their sixth ODI WC title. There is another ICC event coming up in less than a year with the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup to be held in West Indies and USA. Hence, all the teams are now gearing up for the biggest event in the shortest format.&nbsp;

For India, it remains to be seen who will lead the side in the next edition of the T20 WC. Rohit Sharma has not led the side in the format since their 2022 T20 WC semi-final defeat to eventual winners England. Since then, Hardik Pandya has been the stand-in captain but he is also not leading the Men in Blue in their ongoing home T20Is versus Australia due to injury concerns.

Thus, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan was asked whether who should lead India in the 2024 T20 WC. In this regard, while speaking on Cricbuzz, Zaheer said, "Well, because T20 World Cup is just around the corner and there is not a lot of time, so you have to go in with experience. You will have to give that preference to the experienced guy and I will not be surprised if they decide to go ahead with Rohit Sharma himself."

Zaheer opined, "He’s the guy who has been around for a while. He understands handling situations, handling pressure, all those kind of aspects. You still have time for all these other names (talking about the several players who have led&nbsp;in recent times&nbsp;-- such as Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Hardik, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc.) which are there in that list to take the mantle forward."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-t20i-are-australia-here-to-win-they-are-former-indian-opener-on-visitors-struggles-663691">Ind vs Aus, 3rd T20I: 'Are Australia here to win? They are...' - Former Indian opener on visitors' struggles</a>

The former speedster added, "It’s just around six months times (for the World Cup to begin). You have a big tournament like the IPL in between which will give them enough time to prepare. So it’s either going to be Rohit Sharma or depending on how Hardik goes about his rehab, comeback. The challenge is that he’s not going to be playing that many games."

Even the likes of former cricketers such as Gautam Gambhir and Parthiv Patel have voted for Rohit to lead India in the next T20 WC. It will be interesting to see if Hitman returns in T20Is and if he is ready to lead in another ICC event after the heartbreaks of the 2022 T20 WC, WTC final 2023 and this year's ODI WC at home.

The ODI World Cup 2023 edition ended less than two weeks back in India. Rohit Sharma-led India lost the final to Australia as the Men in Yellow clinched their sixth ODI WC title.

The ODI World Cup 2023 edition ended less than two weeks back in India. Rohit Sharma-led India lost the final to Australia as the Men in Yellow clinched their sixth ODI WC title. There is another ICC event coming up in less than a year with the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup to be held in West Indies and USA. Hence, all the teams are now gearing up for the biggest event in the shortest format. For India, it remains to be seen who will lead the side in the next edition of the T20 WC. Rohit Sharma has not led the side in the format since their 2022 T20 WC semi-final defeat to eventual winners England. Since then, Hardik Pandya has been the stand-in captain but he is also not leading the Men in Blue in their ongoing home T20Is versus Australia due to injury concerns. Thus, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan was asked whether who should lead India in the 2024 T20 WC. In this regard, while speaking on Cricbuzz, Zaheer said, "Well, because T20 World Cup is just around the corner and there is not a lot of time, so you have to go in with experience. You will have to give that preference to the experienced guy and I will not be surprised if they decide to go ahead with Rohit Sharma himself." Zaheer opined, "He’s the guy who has been around for a while. He understands handling situations, handling pressure, all those kind of aspects. You still have time for all these other names (talking about the several players who have led in recent times -- such as Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Hardik, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc.) which are there in that list to take the mantle forward." Also read: Ind vs Aus, 3rd T20I: 'Are Australia here to win? They are...' - Former Indian opener on visitors' struggles The former speedster added, "It’s just around six months times (for the World Cup to begin). You have a big tournament like the IPL in between which will give them enough time to prepare. So it’s either going to be Rohit Sharma or depending on how Hardik goes about his rehab, comeback. The challenge is that he’s not going to be playing that many games." Even the likes of former cricketers such as Gautam Gambhir and Parthiv Patel have voted for Rohit to lead India in the next T20 WC. It will be interesting to see if Hitman returns in T20Is and if he is ready to lead in another ICC event after the heartbreaks of the 2022 T20 WC, WTC final 2023 and this year's ODI WC at home.

'He is the guy': Former India pacer picks THIS player to captain Men in Blue in 2024 T20 WC

In a sensational development on Sunday (Nov 26) evening, Hardik Pandya returned to record five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians. On the trade deadline day, the Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper swapped the 2022 champions for MI as he returned to the team where he started his journey. Pandya, a five-time champion himself will don the blue colours of MI in the 2024 season with eyes now cast on the IPL auctions happening on December 19 in Dubai.

<h2>Hardik Pandya returns</h2>

“The feeling of coming back to Mumbai is very special for a lot of reasons. How my cricketing journey started in 2015 with MI with them noticing me in 2013, you know when I look back and how my span of 10 years has been something very special. It has not sunk in yet that I am finally back where my whole cricketing journey started. I have achieved all the possible things they have been the most important part of my life. I have special bonds with Aakash and the whole family as they have been with me in my thick and thin and it is more emotional,” Hardik added in his first interview after his return to Mumbai Indians.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-silencing-100000-people-after-kohlis-wicket-is-the-moment-i-will-savour-for-long-time-pat-cummins-663498">CWC - Silencing 100,000 people after Kohli's wicket is the moment I will savour for long: Pat Cummins</a>

<h2>Deadline day drama</h2>

Sunday proved to be a crucial day for IPL teams where eyes were firmly cast on making the deadline day switch. Pandya along with Cameron Green was on the hotlist of players who were rumoured to be released. However, as the deadline neared, the move looked off by 5 pm on Sunday with GT set to retain their priced asset. However, at the 11th hour, MI managed to pull the rabbit out of the hat as they acquired Pandya while Green was traded to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

The move turned out to be a blockbuster affair as the teams are now intended to focus on the auctions which take place on December 19. With players being released, the teams will have a significant amount to spend in the auctions as host players are set to enter the market.

In a sensational development on Sunday (Nov 26) evening, Hardik Pandya returned to record five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians. On the trade deadline day, the Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper swapped the 2022 champions for MI as he returned to the team where he started his journey.

In a sensational development on Sunday (Nov 26) evening, Hardik Pandya returned to record five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians. On the trade deadline day, the Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper swapped the 2022 champions for MI as he returned to the team where he started his journey. Pandya, a five-time champion himself will don the blue colours of MI in the 2024 season with eyes now cast on the IPL auctions happening on December 19 in Dubai. Hardik Pandya returns “The feeling of coming back to Mumbai is very special for a lot of reasons. How my cricketing journey started in 2015 with MI with them noticing me in 2013, you know when I look back and how my span of 10 years has been something very special. It has not sunk in yet that I am finally back where my whole cricketing journey started. I have achieved all the possible things they have been the most important part of my life. I have special bonds with Aakash and the whole family as they have been with me in my thick and thin and it is more emotional,” Hardik added in his first interview after his return to Mumbai Indians. ALSO READ | CWC - Silencing 100,000 people after Kohli's wicket is the moment I will savour for long: Pat Cummins Deadline day drama Sunday proved to be a crucial day for IPL teams where eyes were firmly cast on making the deadline day switch. Pandya along with Cameron Green was on the hotlist of players who were rumoured to be released. However, as the deadline neared, the move looked off by 5 pm on Sunday with GT set to retain their priced asset. However, at the 11th hour, MI managed to pull the rabbit out of the hat as they acquired Pandya while Green was traded to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The move turned out to be a blockbuster affair as the teams are now intended to focus on the auctions which take place on December 19. With players being released, the teams will have a significant amount to spend in the auctions as host players are set to enter the market.

'The feeling of coming back to Mumbai is very special': Hardik Pandya opens up after emotional MI return

Cameron Green joining Royal Challengers Bangalore is as big news as Hardik Pandya returning to the Mumbai Indians during the IPL 2024 trade window. Green, a powerhouse of talent, played for Mumbai last season,&nbsp;and impressed everyone with his all-around skills. However, as he now enters&nbsp;another star-studded side, RCB's team's director of cricket, Mo Bobat, feels Green could be the perfect fit for them in the middle-order, given what he brings to the table.

With his long strides and a relatively heavy built, Green has more reach and power to smash the cricket ball with - something Bobat wants RCB to make the most of. Showering praises on the first signing (traded in) of the season, Bobat said on RCB Bold Diaries, "He's the ideal fit for us in that middle-order power role."

"He's a high-quality, skillful and powerful batsman. He's got the game against both pace and spin. He's got international experience across formats, and I'm sure he will enjoy batting at the Chinnaswamy," RCB's director of cricket added.

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Bengaluru’s Greenery 🤝 Green’s monstrous hits - time to make safety helmets at the Cubbon Park mandatory. 
 
You’ll enjoy the love of the best fans in the world, Greeny! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B2%A8%E0%B2%AE%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%AERCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ನಮ್ಮRCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CameronGreen_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CameronGreen_</a> <a href="https://t.co/VXo8Df2VfC">pic.twitter.com/VXo8Df2VfC</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1729045064368955445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Talking highly about Green's bowling and fielding, two facets of his game where he has shown promise, Bobat feels Green is an A+ deal for the franchise and that everyone is excited to work with such a serious talent.

"So, seeing him do that will be really exciting. He's also a fantastic bowler, and he bowls with pace and bounce, which were certainly attributes we were looking for, particularly in our home conditions. Let's not forget what an exceptional fielder he is. Some of the catches he has taken in recent times fielding at gully is seriously impressive," Bobat added.

<h2>Head coach happy with Green's inclusion</h2>

Cameron Green's last-minute deal broke the internet, and RCB's new head coach, Andy Flower, is excited to have the Aussie star playing for them, filling the middle-order spot.&nbsp;

"Our focus area really was around the middle order and where we can improve that middle order, in case we do lose some of our top players at the top [order], which inevitably happens," Flower said.&nbsp;

"So, that's one area, and the other area was getting the balance right on the overseas players and how we allocate our resources in that area. Of course, even in these days of Impact Players, all-rounders are still important," Flower explained.

Meanwhile, after adding INR 17.50 crore to their kitty in an all-cash deal for Green, Mumbai Indians traded in Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans for INR 15 crore.

At the IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled for Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai, Mumbai will enter with a purse of INR 15.25 crore, Gujarat with 23.15 crore and RCB with INR 23.35 crore.&nbsp;

Cameron Green joining Royal Challengers Bangalore is as big news as Hardik Pandya returning to the Mumbai Indians during the IPL 2024 trade window. Green, a powerhouse of talent, played for Mumbai last season, and impressed everyone with his all-around skills.

Cameron Green joining Royal Challengers Bangalore is as big news as Hardik Pandya returning to the Mumbai Indians during the IPL 2024 trade window. Green, a powerhouse of talent, played for Mumbai last season, and impressed everyone with his all-around skills. However, as he now enters another star-studded side, RCB's team's director of cricket, Mo Bobat, feels Green could be the perfect fit for them in the middle-order, given what he brings to the table. With his long strides and a relatively heavy built, Green has more reach and power to smash the cricket ball with - something Bobat wants RCB to make the most of. Showering praises on the first signing (traded in) of the season, Bobat said on RCB Bold Diaries, "He's the ideal fit for us in that middle-order power role." "He's a high-quality, skillful and powerful batsman. He's got the game against both pace and spin. He's got international experience across formats, and I'm sure he will enjoy batting at the Chinnaswamy," RCB's director of cricket added. Bengaluru’s Greenery 🤝 Green’s monstrous hits - time to make safety helmets at the Cubbon Park mandatory. You’ll enjoy the love of the best fans in the world, Greeny! ❤️#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #IPL2024 @CameronGreen_ pic.twitter.com/VXo8Df2VfC — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) November 27, 2023 × Talking highly about Green's bowling and fielding, two facets of his game where he has shown promise, Bobat feels Green is an A+ deal for the franchise and that everyone is excited to work with such a serious talent. "So, seeing him do that will be really exciting. He's also a fantastic bowler, and he bowls with pace and bounce, which were certainly attributes we were looking for, particularly in our home conditions. Let's not forget what an exceptional fielder he is. Some of the catches he has taken in recent times fielding at gully is seriously impressive," Bobat added. Head coach happy with Green's inclusion Cameron Green's last-minute deal broke the internet, and RCB's new head coach, Andy Flower, is excited to have the Aussie star playing for them, filling the middle-order spot. "Our focus area really was around the middle order and where we can improve that middle order, in case we do lose some of our top players at the top [order], which inevitably happens," Flower said. "So, that's one area, and the other area was getting the balance right on the overseas players and how we allocate our resources in that area. Of course, even in these days of Impact Players, all-rounders are still important," Flower explained. Meanwhile, after adding INR 17.50 crore to their kitty in an all-cash deal for Green, Mumbai Indians traded in Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans for INR 15 crore. At the IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled for Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai, Mumbai will enter with a purse of INR 15.25 crore, Gujarat with 23.15 crore and RCB with INR 23.35 crore.

IPL 2024: 'He's ideal fit for us' - RCB's director of cricket on Cameron Green's trade

Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians homecoming made headlines for all good, bad and ugly reasons. While several pundits and experts lauded this move in MI's favour, considering the future, few downplayed it for Pandya choosing money over legacy. However, with all being said and done, Hardik has returned to his first IPL team, having desired the same, his previous franchise (Gujarat Titans) team director Vikram Solanki revealed.&nbsp;

In a goodbye message to GT's first captain, who led the side in two IPL finals in successive seasons, Solanki revealed that Hardik had expressed his desire to return to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2024.

"As the first captain of Gujarat Titans, Hardik Pandya has helped the franchise deliver two fantastic seasons that resulted in winning one TATA IPL championship and one appearance in the final. He has now expressed a desire to return to his original team Mumbai Indians. We respect his decision and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours," Solanki said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2025-champions-trophy-venue-likely-to-change-as-bcci-remains-firm-on-not-travelling-to-pakistan-reports-663408">2025 Champions Trophy venue likely to change as BCCI remains firm on not travelling to Pakistan - Reports</a>

Meanwhile, Hardik's trade from GT to MI saw the former five-time champions release their match-winner-in-making, Cameron Green, who joined Royal Challengers Bangalore in an all-cash deal. &nbsp;

Upon joining the MI Paltan, its owner, Nita Ambani, welcomed India's stand-in T20 captain with open arms, saying it's a heartwarming reunion with the MI family and the team is excited about it.&nbsp;

"We are thrilled to welcome Hardik back home! It’s a heartwarming reunion with our Mumbai Indians family! From being a young scouted talent of Mumbai Indians to now being a team India star, Hardik has come a long way, and we’re excited for what the future holds for him and Mumbai Indians!” Nita Ambani said in a statement.

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Welcome back 𝗛𝗢𝗠𝗘! 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://t.co/rrP5s36xn2">https://t.co/rrP5s36xn2</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1729043105423471042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Hardik thanks GT for unforgettable journey</h2>

On the retention day (Nov 26), GT retained their captain, only for him to re-sign a deal with his former franchise a couple of hours later. Both franchises involved made it official on Monday (Nov 27).&nbsp;

Thanking Gujarat Titans for providing him with a chance to lead the side in the past two seasons and other countless memories, Hardik&nbsp;posted on X,&nbsp;"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 an individual. The memories and experiences with GT will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for the unforgettable journey."&nbsp;

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🙏 <a href="https://t.co/anZXpXJhrC">pic.twitter.com/anZXpXJhrC</a>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1729127872990945430?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, GT and MI released several players on the retention day and will enter the IPL 2024 mini-auction of INR 23.15 crores and INR 15.25 crores.

Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians homecoming made headlines for all good, bad and ugly reasons. While several pundits and experts lauded this move in MI's favour, considering the future, few downplayed it for Pandya choosing money over legacy.

Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians homecoming made headlines for all good, bad and ugly reasons. While several pundits and experts lauded this move in MI's favour, considering the future, few downplayed it for Pandya choosing money over legacy. However, with all being said and done, Hardik has returned to his first IPL team, having desired the same, his previous franchise (Gujarat Titans) team director Vikram Solanki revealed. In a goodbye message to GT's first captain, who led the side in two IPL finals in successive seasons, Solanki revealed that Hardik had expressed his desire to return to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2024. "As the first captain of Gujarat Titans, Hardik Pandya has helped the franchise deliver two fantastic seasons that resulted in winning one TATA IPL championship and one appearance in the final. He has now expressed a desire to return to his original team Mumbai Indians. We respect his decision and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours," Solanki said. ALSO READ: 2025 Champions Trophy venue likely to change as BCCI remains firm on not travelling to Pakistan - Reports Meanwhile, Hardik's trade from GT to MI saw the former five-time champions release their match-winner-in-making, Cameron Green, who joined Royal Challengers Bangalore in an all-cash deal. Upon joining the MI Paltan, its owner, Nita Ambani, welcomed India's stand-in T20 captain with open arms, saying it's a heartwarming reunion with the MI family and the team is excited about it. "We are thrilled to welcome Hardik back home! It’s a heartwarming reunion with our Mumbai Indians family! From being a young scouted talent of Mumbai Indians to now being a team India star, Hardik has come a long way, and we’re excited for what the future holds for him and Mumbai Indians!” Nita Ambani said in a statement. Welcome back 𝗛𝗢𝗠𝗘! 💙 #OneFamily https://t.co/rrP5s36xn2 — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) November 27, 2023 × Hardik thanks GT for unforgettable journey On the retention day (Nov 26), GT retained their captain, only for him to re-sign a deal with his former franchise a couple of hours later. Both franchises involved made it official on Monday (Nov 27). Thanking Gujarat Titans for providing him with a chance to lead the side in the past two seasons and other countless memories, Hardik posted on X, "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 an individual. The memories and experiences with GT will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for the unforgettable journey." 🙏 pic.twitter.com/anZXpXJhrC — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) November 27, 2023 × Meanwhile, GT and MI released several players on the retention day and will enter the IPL 2024 mini-auction of INR 23.15 crores and INR 15.25 crores.

IPL: Hardik wanted to return to Mumbai Indians, reveals GT's team director Vikram Solanki in goodbye message

Shubman Gill has been announced as the new captain of the one-time winners Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of the IPL mini-auction for the 2024 edition, on Monday (Nov 27). After Hardik Pandya was traded to the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI), in a historic deal, Gill has been elevated as the captain of the Gujarat franchise. The 24-year-old will lead a side filled with experienced campaigners such as Rashid Khan - who was serving as Hardik's deputy since the franchise's admission in 2022 - David Miller, Mohammed Shami, Matthew Wade and the likes.

Vikram Solanki, Gujarat's director of cricket, said in a statement, "We've seen him mature not only as a batter but also as a leader in cricket," he added. "His contribution on the field has helped Gujarat Titans emerge as a formidable force...His maturity and skill are evident in his on-field performance and we are extremely excited to embark on a new journey with a young leader like Shubman at the helm."

On Hardik's switch to his previous franchise MI, Solanki said, "He has expressed a desire to return to his original team Mumbai Indians."

"We respect his decision and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours."

Gill has raised his stature while playing for the Gujarat franchise since their admission in IPL 2022. The right-hander has amassed 1,373 runs in two seasons for Gujarat, after joining them post his stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). In 2023, the youngster ended with 890 runs -- most by any -- including three hundreds and four half-centuries. It will be interesting to see how Gill responds to the added responsibility in the upcoming season.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-hardik-pandya-traded-to-mumbai-indians-cameron-green-joins-rcb-in-all-cash-deal-663119">IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya traded to Mumbai Indians; Cameron Green joins RCB in all-cash dea</a>l

GT retained and released list - IPL 2024 Auction

<h2>Here is the full list of players released by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Yash Dayal</li>
	<li>KS Bharat</li>
	<li>Shivam Mavi</li>
	<li>Urvil Patel</li>
	<li>Pradeep Sangwan</li>
	<li>Odean Smith</li>
	<li>Alzarri Joseph</li>
	<li>Dasun Shanaka</li>
	<li>Hardik Pandya</li>
</ul>

<h2>Here's the full list of players retained by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction -</h2>

<ul>
	<li>David Miller</li>
	<li>Shubman Gill</li>
	<li>Matthew Wade</li>
	<li>Wriddhiman Saha</li>
	<li>Kane Williamson</li>
	<li>Hardik Pandya (capt)</li>
	<li>Abhinav Manohar</li>
	<li>B Sai Sudharsan</li>
	<li>Darshan Nalkande</li>
	<li>Vijay Shankar</li>
	<li>Jayant Yadav</li>
	<li>Rahul Tewatia</li>
	<li>Mohammed Shami</li>
	<li>Noor Ahmad</li>
	<li>R Sai Kishore</li>
	<li>Rashid Khan</li>
	<li>Josh Little</li>
	<li>Mohit Sharma</li>
</ul>

Shubman Gill has been announced as the new captain of the one-time winners Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of the IPL mini-auction for the 2024 edition, on Monday (Nov 27).

Shubman Gill has been announced as the new captain of the one-time winners Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of the IPL mini-auction for the 2024 edition, on Monday (Nov 27). After Hardik Pandya was traded to the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI), in a historic deal, Gill has been elevated as the captain of the Gujarat franchise. The 24-year-old will lead a side filled with experienced campaigners such as Rashid Khan - who was serving as Hardik's deputy since the franchise's admission in 2022 - David Miller, Mohammed Shami, Matthew Wade and the likes. Vikram Solanki, Gujarat's director of cricket, said in a statement, "We've seen him mature not only as a batter but also as a leader in cricket," he added. "His contribution on the field has helped Gujarat Titans emerge as a formidable force...His maturity and skill are evident in his on-field performance and we are extremely excited to embark on a new journey with a young leader like Shubman at the helm." On Hardik's switch to his previous franchise MI, Solanki said, "He has expressed a desire to return to his original team Mumbai Indians." "We respect his decision and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours." Gill has raised his stature while playing for the Gujarat franchise since their admission in IPL 2022. The right-hander has amassed 1,373 runs in two seasons for Gujarat, after joining them post his stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). In 2023, the youngster ended with 890 runs -- most by any -- including three hundreds and four half-centuries. It will be interesting to see how Gill responds to the added responsibility in the upcoming season. Also read: IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya traded to Mumbai Indians; Cameron Green joins RCB in all-cash deal GT retained and released list - IPL 2024 Auction Here is the full list of players released by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction: Yash Dayal KS Bharat Shivam Mavi Urvil Patel Pradeep Sangwan Odean Smith Alzarri Joseph Dasun Shanaka Hardik Pandya Here's the full list of players retained by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction - David Miller Shubman Gill Matthew Wade Wriddhiman Saha Kane Williamson Hardik Pandya (capt) Abhinav Manohar B Sai Sudharsan Darshan Nalkande Vijay Shankar Jayant Yadav Rahul Tewatia Mohammed Shami Noor Ahmad R Sai Kishore Rashid Khan Josh Little Mohit Sharma

IPL 2024: Gujarat Titans appoint Shubman Gill new captain after Hardik Pandya trade

GT retained and released list:&nbsp;Gujarat Titans have released the list of players retained ahead of the IPL 2024 auction and the list includes Hardik Pandya as well. It was rumoured that Pandya is going to be traded to Mumbai Indians in a blockbuster trade ahead of the retention deadline.

Among other players who have been retained by Titans are expected names including Shubman Gill, David Miller, Rashid Khan and Sai Sudharsan to name a few.

Among the players who have been let go by the Titans are majorly bowlers or bowling all-rounders including Yash Dayal, who was taken to cleaners by KKR's Rinku Singh last season with five sixes in one over. In total, only eight players have been released by the 2022 winners.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-auction-full-list-of-players-retained-and-released-by-kolkata-knight-riders-663065">IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players retained and released by Kolkata Knight Riders</a>

They have not changed much of the squad given the success enjoyed over the last two seasons which saw them reaching the final twice in two seasons of their existence.&nbsp;

Gujarat Titans had US $0.54 million or INR 4.45 crore left in the purse for the auction before releasing the players. They now will have decent amount at their disposal with an added boost of US $600,000 (INR 5 crore) approved by the IPL for each team.

As for Pandya, he has been named as the captain but the trade window is still open and player to player swap is still a probability.

GT retained and released list - IPL 2024 Auction

<h2>Here is the full list of players released by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction –</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Yash Dayal</li>
	<li>KS Bharat</li>
	<li>Shivam Mavi</li>
	<li>Urvil Patel</li>
	<li>Pradeep Sangwan</li>
	<li>Odean Smith</li>
	<li>Alzarri Joseph</li>
	<li>Dasun Shanaka</li>
</ul>

<h2>Here's the full list of players retained by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction -</h2>

<ul>
	<li>David Miller</li>
	<li>Shubman Gill</li>
	<li>Matthew Wade</li>
	<li>Wriddhiman Saha</li>
	<li>Kane Williamson</li>
	<li>Hardik Pandya (capt)</li>
	<li>Abhinav Manohar</li>
	<li>B Sai Sudharsan</li>
	<li>Darshan Nalkande</li>
	<li>Vijay Shankar</li>
	<li>Jayant Yadav</li>
	<li>Rahul Tewatia</li>
	<li>Mohammed Shami</li>
	<li>Noor Ahmad</li>
	<li>R Sai Kishore</li>
	<li>Rashid Khan</li>
	<li>Josh Little</li>
	<li>Mohit Sharma 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

GT retained and released list: Gujarat Titans have released the list of players retained ahead of the IPL 2024 auction and the list includes Hardik Pandya as well.

GT retained and released list: Gujarat Titans have released the list of players retained ahead of the IPL 2024 auction and the list includes Hardik Pandya as well. It was rumoured that Pandya is going to be traded to Mumbai Indians in a blockbuster trade ahead of the retention deadline. Among other players who have been retained by Titans are expected names including Shubman Gill, David Miller, Rashid Khan and Sai Sudharsan to name a few. Among the players who have been let go by the Titans are majorly bowlers or bowling all-rounders including Yash Dayal, who was taken to cleaners by KKR's Rinku Singh last season with five sixes in one over. In total, only eight players have been released by the 2022 winners. Also Read: IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players retained and released by Kolkata Knight Riders They have not changed much of the squad given the success enjoyed over the last two seasons which saw them reaching the final twice in two seasons of their existence. Gujarat Titans had US $0.54 million or INR 4.45 crore left in the purse for the auction before releasing the players. They now will have decent amount at their disposal with an added boost of US $600,000 (INR 5 crore) approved by the IPL for each team. As for Pandya, he has been named as the captain but the trade window is still open and player to player swap is still a probability. GT retained and released list - IPL 2024 Auction Here is the full list of players released by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction – Yash Dayal KS Bharat Shivam Mavi Urvil Patel Pradeep Sangwan Odean Smith Alzarri Joseph Dasun Shanaka Here's the full list of players retained by GT ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction - David Miller Shubman Gill Matthew Wade Wriddhiman Saha Kane Williamson Hardik Pandya (capt) Abhinav Manohar B Sai Sudharsan Darshan Nalkande Vijay Shankar Jayant Yadav Rahul Tewatia Mohammed Shami Noor Ahmad R Sai Kishore Rashid Khan Josh Little Mohit Sharma

IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players retained and released by Gujarat Titans

Two hours after Gujarat Titans retained their captain, Hardik Pandya, on the IPL 2024 retention deadline day, the dream trade of Pandya returning to his former franchise, Mumbai Indians, turned into a reality. The most talked-about and perhaps the biggest trade in the tournament’s history is said to be completed, with details submitted to the BCCI and all parties concerned in IPL.

As per Cricbuzz, the deal was signed on Sunday (Nov 26) between both franchises in an all-cash trade, meaning no player switched bases from MI to GT. Per the report, the BCCI has given this deal a go-ahead involving just cash transactions, the value of which remains unclear. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya’s league fee for one year is INR 15 crores.&nbsp;

Outside of Hardik Pandya joining Mumbai Indians, the five-time winners let go of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green in an all-cash deal to Royal Challengers Bangalore, per the latest reports. Though confirmation of the same is yet to get public, a renowned commentator, Harsha Bhogle, posted on X, putting credibility beside it.

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That explains it now. Cameron Green in an all-cash deal to <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> and Hardik Pandya, with the money released, to <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a>. So RCB batting will be Faf, Virat, Green, Patidar, Maxwell, DK. MI will be Rohit, Ishan, Sky, Tilak, Hardik, David. <a href="https://t.co/7WIVilZTGO">https://t.co/7WIVilZTGO</a>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1728783624453972015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-auction-full-list-of-players-released-and-retained-by-lucknow-super-giants-663101">IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players released and retained by Lucknow Super Giants</a>

While Pandya’s selection will boost the side’s chances of going for the record sixth title in the 17th season, Green’s presence could come in handy. Green, bought for over INR 17 crores in the previous auction, impressed everyone with his all-around ability despite not getting to bat at a particular position throughout the season.&nbsp;

His maiden IPL hundred in MI’s last league game of IPL 2023 helped them qualify for the playoffs, where they failed to make it to the next stage.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, both teams listed their released and retained players ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai.&nbsp;

<h3>Mumbai Indians – List of retained and released players&nbsp;</h3>

Players released: Arshad Khan, Ramandeep Singh, Hrithik Shokeen, Raghav Goyal, Jofra Archer, Tristan Stubbs, Duan Jansen, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Chris Jordan, Sandeep Warrier

Players traded out:&nbsp;Cameron Green

Players traded in: Romario Shepherd, Hardik Pandya

Players retained: Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff

<h3>Gujarat Titans – List of retained and released players</h3>

Players released: Alzarri Joseph, Odean Smith, Dasun Shanaka, Yash Dayal, KS Bharat, Shivam Mavi, Urvil Patel, Pradeep Sangwan

Players traded out:&nbsp;Hardik Pandya

Players retained: David Miller, Shubman Gill, Matthew Wade, Wriddhiman Saha, Kane Williamson, Hardik Pandya, Abhinav Manohar, B Sai Sudharsan, Darshan Nalkande, Vijay Shankar, Jayant Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Josh Little, Mohit Sharma

Two hours after Gujarat Titans retained their captain, Hardik Pandya, on the IPL 2024 retention deadline day, the dream trade of Pandya returning to his former franchise, Mumbai Indians, turned into a reality.

Two hours after Gujarat Titans retained their captain, Hardik Pandya, on the IPL 2024 retention deadline day, the dream trade of Pandya returning to his former franchise, Mumbai Indians, turned into a reality. The most talked-about and perhaps the biggest trade in the tournament’s history is said to be completed, with details submitted to the BCCI and all parties concerned in IPL. As per Cricbuzz, the deal was signed on Sunday (Nov 26) between both franchises in an all-cash trade, meaning no player switched bases from MI to GT. Per the report, the BCCI has given this deal a go-ahead involving just cash transactions, the value of which remains unclear. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya’s league fee for one year is INR 15 crores. Outside of Hardik Pandya joining Mumbai Indians, the five-time winners let go of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green in an all-cash deal to Royal Challengers Bangalore, per the latest reports. Though confirmation of the same is yet to get public, a renowned commentator, Harsha Bhogle, posted on X, putting credibility beside it. That explains it now. Cameron Green in an all-cash deal to @RCBTweets and Hardik Pandya, with the money released, to @mipaltan. So RCB batting will be Faf, Virat, Green, Patidar, Maxwell, DK. MI will be Rohit, Ishan, Sky, Tilak, Hardik, David. https://t.co/7WIVilZTGO — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 26, 2023 × ALSO READ: IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players released and retained by Lucknow Super Giants While Pandya’s selection will boost the side’s chances of going for the record sixth title in the 17th season, Green’s presence could come in handy. Green, bought for over INR 17 crores in the previous auction, impressed everyone with his all-around ability despite not getting to bat at a particular position throughout the season. His maiden IPL hundred in MI’s last league game of IPL 2023 helped them qualify for the playoffs, where they failed to make it to the next stage. Meanwhile, both teams listed their released and retained players ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai. Mumbai Indians – List of retained and released players Players released: Arshad Khan, Ramandeep Singh, Hrithik Shokeen, Raghav Goyal, Jofra Archer, Tristan Stubbs, Duan Jansen, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Chris Jordan, Sandeep Warrier Players traded out: Cameron Green Players traded in: Romario Shepherd, Hardik Pandya Players retained: Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff Gujarat Titans – List of retained and released players Players released: Alzarri Joseph, Odean Smith, Dasun Shanaka, Yash Dayal, KS Bharat, Shivam Mavi, Urvil Patel, Pradeep Sangwan Players traded out: Hardik Pandya Players retained: David Miller, Shubman Gill, Matthew Wade, Wriddhiman Saha, Kane Williamson, Hardik Pandya, Abhinav Manohar, B Sai Sudharsan, Darshan Nalkande, Vijay Shankar, Jayant Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Josh Little, Mohit Sharma

IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya traded to Mumbai Indians; Cameron Green joins RCB in all-cash deal

Gujarat Titans have retained their captain, Hardik Pandya, amid rumours of a potential trade to Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction. In one of the most-talked-about switches in the history of IPL auctions, Pandya was said to join his former team, with both the player and the parties concerned coming on the same page. While everyone was keen on watching this dream deal unfold into a reality, GT announced Hardik’s retention on the deadline day.

However, the move to his former franchise is still a possibility, with the trade window open till December 12, which is one week before the IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-auction-full-list-of-players-retained-and-released-by-kolkata-knight-riders-663065">IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players retained and released by Kolkata Knight Riders</a>

Earlier, per several reports, both Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans agreed on an all-cash deal for the trade of India’s stand-in T20I captain. Pandya, who led Gujarat to two back-to-back finals, winning the first time in 2021, was said to be asking for more brand endorsements from GT, which they denied providing outright.

Upon reaching out to his former franchise after the IPL 2023, Mumbai Indians were believed to have promised him to provide the same but with the completion of the trade. Reports further suggested that Pandya and Mumbai Indians agreed on a possible trade even before the World Cup 2023 started.

Although confirmation on this rumoured trade deal is made public, the general narrative feels Pandya will continue leading the Gujarat-based franchise in the 17th season.&nbsp;

<h2>List of released and retained players</h2>

While much like most of the top teams, Gujarat has also retained their core, with several match winners lined up to take on everyone come the next season, the newest addition to the IPL family decided to release eight players, including two West Indian and six Indian players.

Here is the full list of players released by Gujarat Titans ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction –

Alzarri Joseph, Odean Smith, Dasun Shanaka, Yash Dayal, KS Bharat, Shivam Mavi, Urvil Patel, Pradeep Sangwan

Players retained by Gujarat Titans –

Hardik Pandya (captain), David Miller, Shubman Gill, Matthew Wade (wk), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Kane Williamson, Abhinav Manohar, B Sai Sudharsan, Darshan Nalkande, Vijay Shankar, Jayant Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Josh Little and Mohit Sharma

Gujarat Titans have retained their captain, Hardik Pandya, amid rumours of a potential trade to Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction. In one of the most-talked-about switches in the history of IPL auctions, Pandya was said to join his former team, with both the player and the parties concerned coming on the same page.

Gujarat Titans have retained their captain, Hardik Pandya, amid rumours of a potential trade to Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction. In one of the most-talked-about switches in the history of IPL auctions, Pandya was said to join his former team, with both the player and the parties concerned coming on the same page. While everyone was keen on watching this dream deal unfold into a reality, GT announced Hardik’s retention on the deadline day. However, the move to his former franchise is still a possibility, with the trade window open till December 12, which is one week before the IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai. ALSO READ: IPL 2024 Auction: Full list of players retained and released by Kolkata Knight Riders Earlier, per several reports, both Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans agreed on an all-cash deal for the trade of India’s stand-in T20I captain. Pandya, who led Gujarat to two back-to-back finals, winning the first time in 2021, was said to be asking for more brand endorsements from GT, which they denied providing outright. Upon reaching out to his former franchise after the IPL 2023, Mumbai Indians were believed to have promised him to provide the same but with the completion of the trade. Reports further suggested that Pandya and Mumbai Indians agreed on a possible trade even before the World Cup 2023 started. Although confirmation on this rumoured trade deal is made public, the general narrative feels Pandya will continue leading the Gujarat-based franchise in the 17th season. List of released and retained players While much like most of the top teams, Gujarat has also retained their core, with several match winners lined up to take on everyone come the next season, the newest addition to the IPL family decided to release eight players, including two West Indian and six Indian players. Here is the full list of players released by Gujarat Titans ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction – Alzarri Joseph, Odean Smith, Dasun Shanaka, Yash Dayal, KS Bharat, Shivam Mavi, Urvil Patel, Pradeep Sangwan Players retained by Gujarat Titans – Hardik Pandya (captain), David Miller, Shubman Gill, Matthew Wade (wk), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Kane Williamson, Abhinav Manohar, B Sai Sudharsan, Darshan Nalkande, Vijay Shankar, Jayant Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Josh Little and Mohit Sharma

IPL 2024 Auction: Gujarat Titans retain Hardik Pandya amid trade rumours to Mumbai Indians

The five-time IPL winners, Mumbai Indians, have decided to release star foreign players – Cameron Green and Jofra Archer ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction to manage funds following Hardik Pandya’s shock trade from Gujarat Titans. Mumbai Indians have a limited purse heading into the auction, and to add more money to their kitty with an extra INR 5 crores from last season, they plan to let go of two massive match winners.

Australian Cameron Green entered his maiden IPL auction last year with a base price of INR 2 crores. Mumbai Indians chased him till the end, succeeding in bagging his services for a whopping INR 17.5 crores – making him the most expensive Australian and the second most expensive purchase in IPL auction history.&nbsp;

In his debut season, despite batting at several positions throughout the tournament, Green made a name for himself, smashing 452 runs in 16 matches, including a hundred in the team’s final league match against the SunRisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede. That ton also helped MI win the match and qualify for the playoffs. However, Green averaged slightly above 50 (50.22), striking at 160.28.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-winner-ambati-rayudu-opens-up-on-ipl-journey-picks-csk-over-mi-as-special-team-662669">Record winner Ambati Rayudu opens up on IPL journey, picks CSK over MI as special team</a>

Meanwhile, the Mumbai-based outfit had bought the World Cup winner with England, Jofra Archer, for INR 8 crores in the last mega auction in 2021. Though the seamer missed the first season with an injury, he appeared in just five matches the next time, picking two wickets at a biting average of 95 and economy of near 9.5.&nbsp;

With Archer out with a stressed fracture in his right elbow, Mumbai Indians decided to part ways and look out for better injury-free prospects at the IPL 2024 mini-auction. The MI side has also traded West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for his base price of INR 50 lakh.

<h2>Pandya’s shock trade from GT to MI</h2>

Although several rumours were doing rounds on Hardik Pandya wanting to rejoin his former franchise, Mumbai Indians, the confirmation came Friday night, surprising the cricket world all over.&nbsp;

Hardik – Gujarat Titans captain, who led his team to two back-to-back IPL finals, winning the 2022 season, parted ways with them. Though reports suggest the trade between the two teams involved is an all-cash deal, the final details are submitted to the BCCI.&nbsp;

However, the deadline date for all teams to submit their final list of retained and released is Sunday (Nov 26).&nbsp;

The IPL 2024 mini-auction will get underway on December 19 in Dubai.&nbsp;

The five-time IPL winners, Mumbai Indians, have decided to release star foreign players – Cameron Green and Jofra Archer ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction to manage funds following Hardik Pandya’s shock trade from Gujarat Titans.

The five-time IPL winners, Mumbai Indians, have decided to release star foreign players – Cameron Green and Jofra Archer ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction to manage funds following Hardik Pandya’s shock trade from Gujarat Titans. Mumbai Indians have a limited purse heading into the auction, and to add more money to their kitty with an extra INR 5 crores from last season, they plan to let go of two massive match winners. Australian Cameron Green entered his maiden IPL auction last year with a base price of INR 2 crores. Mumbai Indians chased him till the end, succeeding in bagging his services for a whopping INR 17.5 crores – making him the most expensive Australian and the second most expensive purchase in IPL auction history. In his debut season, despite batting at several positions throughout the tournament, Green made a name for himself, smashing 452 runs in 16 matches, including a hundred in the team’s final league match against the SunRisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede. That ton also helped MI win the match and qualify for the playoffs. However, Green averaged slightly above 50 (50.22), striking at 160.28. ALSO READ: Record winner Ambati Rayudu opens up on IPL journey, picks CSK over MI as special team Meanwhile, the Mumbai-based outfit had bought the World Cup winner with England, Jofra Archer, for INR 8 crores in the last mega auction in 2021. Though the seamer missed the first season with an injury, he appeared in just five matches the next time, picking two wickets at a biting average of 95 and economy of near 9.5. With Archer out with a stressed fracture in his right elbow, Mumbai Indians decided to part ways and look out for better injury-free prospects at the IPL 2024 mini-auction. The MI side has also traded West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for his base price of INR 50 lakh. Pandya’s shock trade from GT to MI Although several rumours were doing rounds on Hardik Pandya wanting to rejoin his former franchise, Mumbai Indians, the confirmation came Friday night, surprising the cricket world all over. Hardik – Gujarat Titans captain, who led his team to two back-to-back IPL finals, winning the 2022 season, parted ways with them. Though reports suggest the trade between the two teams involved is an all-cash deal, the final details are submitted to the BCCI. However, the deadline date for all teams to submit their final list of retained and released is Sunday (Nov 26). The IPL 2024 mini-auction will get underway on December 19 in Dubai.

IPL 2024 Auction: Mumbai Indians to release Green, Archer for Pandya’s potential switch – Reports

Former ace Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has urged Hardik Pandya to&nbsp;show due respect&nbsp;to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as the latter approach the twilight of their careers. Hardik, tipped to be the next permanent captain of the T20I side has been urged by Akhtar to show the same respect Virat Kohli showed to MS Dhoni while the latter showed to Sachin Tendulkar. The Indian team is predicted to go through a period of transition as young players are getting more opportunities.

<h2>Pandya with a job in hand</h2>

"I'm maybe putting pressure on Hardik Pandya through this but he needs to give that respect to Rohit and Kohli. He is on the team because of them. The kind of favours he has got in the team from them should be repaid. And they are legends of Indian cricket, so they should be given due respect before they go," Akhtar told Zee News.

"When Dhoni came, he gave respect to Sachin Tendulkar. When Virat came, he respected Dhoni. When Rohit replaced Virat, he also gave him respect. So, now it's up to Hardik Pandya how he wants to send these two great players off. It's up to him now. And he has to bid them goodbye respectfully. They deserve this respect," added Akhtar.

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<h2>Is Rohit done for limited-overs format?</h2>

According to reports in the media, current skipper Rohit Sharma is all but done for T20Is and will soon announce his retirement from the shortest format. It is also reported that Rohit could be dropped from the ODI format to make way for the younger generations while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) continues to groom players. Rohit has reportedly told the BCCI that he is fine for not getting considered for the T20I format but is still undecided on whether to play the ODIs or not.

While Rohit is surely not in plans for the T20 World Cup, the same can’t be said about Virat Kohli as he continues to impress with age. However, according to reports he too is not in plans for a place in the T20I side but is firmly good to go until at least the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Former ace Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has urged Hardik Pandya to show due respect to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as the latter approach the twilight of their careers.

Former ace Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has urged Hardik Pandya to show due respect to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as the latter approach the twilight of their careers. Hardik, tipped to be the next permanent captain of the T20I side has been urged by Akhtar to show the same respect Virat Kohli showed to MS Dhoni while the latter showed to Sachin Tendulkar. The Indian team is predicted to go through a period of transition as young players are getting more opportunities. Pandya with a job in hand "I'm maybe putting pressure on Hardik Pandya through this but he needs to give that respect to Rohit and Kohli. He is on the team because of them. The kind of favours he has got in the team from them should be repaid. And they are legends of Indian cricket, so they should be given due respect before they go," Akhtar told Zee News. "When Dhoni came, he gave respect to Sachin Tendulkar. When Virat came, he respected Dhoni. When Rohit replaced Virat, he also gave him respect. So, now it's up to Hardik Pandya how he wants to send these two great players off. It's up to him now. And he has to bid them goodbye respectfully. They deserve this respect," added Akhtar. ALSO READ | Iconic cricket venue ‘The Gabba’ in Brisbane to undergo redevelopment for 2032 Olympics Is Rohit done for limited-overs format? According to reports in the media, current skipper Rohit Sharma is all but done for T20Is and will soon announce his retirement from the shortest format. It is also reported that Rohit could be dropped from the ODI format to make way for the younger generations while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) continues to groom players. Rohit has reportedly told the BCCI that he is fine for not getting considered for the T20I format but is still undecided on whether to play the ODIs or not. While Rohit is surely not in plans for the T20 World Cup, the same can’t be said about Virat Kohli as he continues to impress with age. However, according to reports he too is not in plans for a place in the T20I side but is firmly good to go until at least the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Shoaib Akhtar urges Hardik Pandya to repay favours with respectful sendoff to Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

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