Hardik Pandya’s switch from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians has shocked everyone. Especially when he is joining the team as a captain replacing Rohit Sharma. To say that it remains a topic of hot discussion would not be so wrong. Now, Ashish Nehra, the head coach of Gujarat Titans opened up and shared why he did not stop Hardik Pandya from joining MI and leaving Gujarat Titans.
Hardik Pandya was an instant hit when he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden victory in IPL 2022
Hardik Pandya quickly became a star after leading Gujarat Titans to their first-ever IPL victory in 2022, capturing attention with his exceptional leadership skills. Despite this success, he surprised many by announcing his move to Mumbai Indians ahead of the 2024 season, where he was appointed captain. This decision sparked discussions, especially regarding Mumbai’s choice to replace Rohit Sharma. Reactions from Rohit Sharma’s wife Ritika are also to be not forgotten. Nonetheless, it is what it is.
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Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra opened up about Hardik Pandya’s switch from GT to MI
GT head coach Ashish Nehra recently addressed Hardik Pandya’s decision to switch from GT to MI just a week before the start of the IPL season. Nehra candidly admitted that while he didn’t try to stop Pandya from leaving, he would have persuaded him to stay if it were any other franchise. Despite Pandya’s departure, Nehra expressed understanding, noting Pandya’s history with MI.
He said as we quote,
“I never tried to convince Pandya to stay back. As you play more, you gain experience. I could have stopped him had he gone to any other franchise. He (Pandya) played here for two years but he has gone to a team (MI), where he has played previously for 5-6 years.”
Reflecting on the trend, Nehra cautioned IPL franchises about the increasing likelihood of player transfers, similar to those seen in European football leagues. He emphasized the evolving nature of cricket and the emergence of trades and transfers as a norm. Nehra acknowledged the shift as a new challenge, suggesting that Pandya’s move could offer valuable learning experiences and wishing him the best in his future endeavors with MI.
“The manner in which the sport (cricket) is moving, we will have trades and transfers like we see in international soccer. It’s a new challenge for him and may be he will learn something new and we wish him the best.”
Now, the anticipation builds as Mumbai Indians prepare to face Gujarat Titans in their IPL 2024 opener on March 24, stirring up excitement among fans eager to see how Pandya’s leadership will fare against his former team.
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The TATA IPL 2024 season is scheduled to commence on March 22, 2024, and will conclude on May 29, 2024. This season stands out with a total of 74 matches scheduled to take place, promising an action-packed tournament for cricket fans worldwide.
Will Pandya have a successful win as MI captain against GT? Or will Pandya face defeats via the hands of his old team? Do share your thoughts via the comments below.
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