‘Hamari feelings ke saath khilwaad hua hai’ – Fans react as Hardik Pandya gets retained by Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2024 auctions

In a dramatic turn of events leading up to the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction for the 17th edition, the Gujarat Titans (GT) have quashed all speculations surrounding the potential transfer of their skipper and star all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, to the Mumbai Indians (MI).

Ahead of the transfer window deadline, rumours were rife that a deal had been struck between MI and GT, with the 5-time champions reportedly paying a staggering INR 15 crore and additional amounts for the coveted all-rounder. However, in a move that delighted Gujarat fans, the franchise officially announced that Hardik Pandya would be retained, putting an end to any transfer talks.

Great news for GT’s fans

This development comes as a relief for GT supporters, considering Hardik’s instrumental role in leading the team to two consecutive finals in 2022 and 2023. His retention solidifies the team’s core and sets the stage for another exciting season. On the flip side, GT has released a few key players ahead of the auction, including the premium Caribbean fast bowler Alzarri Joseph. The franchise also bid farewell to Yash Dayal and Shivam Mavi, making strategic decisions to reshape their squad.

As the countdown to the IPL auction begins, cricket fans are buzzing with anticipation, eager to witness the reshuffling of talent and the emergence of new team dynamics. With 23 days remaining until the auction, the cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits the unveiling of team strategies and the fierce bidding wars that characterize this cash-rich league.

Retained players: 

David Miller, Shubman Gill, Darshan Nalkande, Vijay Shankar, Jayant Yadav, Matthew Wade, Wriddhiman Saha, Kane Williamson, Hardik Pandya (capt), Abhinav Manohar, B Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Josh Little, Mohit Sharma

Released: 

Yash Dayal, Dasun Shanaka, KS Bharat, Shivam Mavi, Urvil Patel, Pradeep Sangwan, Odean Smith, Alzarri Joseph

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/Keahwaa/status/1728744938467213494