Hardik Pandya’s ‘Homecoming’ Remark to Heat Up MI vs. GT Rivalry in IPL 2024

Originally from Gujarat, he seems to have been adopted by Mumbai. Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is certain he has finally come home after spending two seasons playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT). Returning to the Mumbai Indians (MI), Pandya experienced early Indian Premier League (IPL) success as a developing all-rounder in Twenty20 cricket. Between 2015 and 2021, the top all-rounder was a member of Mumbai’s championship team four times. Before the mini-auction in Dubai, Pandya completed his homecoming for the IPL 2024 by re-joining the Mumbai Indians in an all-cash agreement with the Gujarat Titans. Hardik took over from the seasoned Rohit Sharma as Mumbai’s captain for the next campaign. The former GT captain served as Rohit’s deputy at the ICC World Cup in 2023.

Hardik’s Mumbai Paltan to meet GT in their IPL 2024 opener

An ankle injury sustained last year ended Pandya’s participation at the ICC event. After recovering from an injury, Pandya recently made his eagerly anticipated return to competitive cricket. Pandya stated that he had returned home two years before making his captaincy debut at MI in an interview with Star Sports. Hardik and company take on GT in their IPL 2024 opener on March 24. “I’m incredibly appreciative of the love and support that fans have shown me. It’s an immeasurable blessing,” Hardik remarked.

Hardik’s homecoming remark to intensify MI vs. GT rivalry

“Going back to the Mumbai Indians is like going back to the beginning.” Since I moved to Mumbai as a young man from Baroda, this city has helped me grow by teaching me resilience and humility. The affection and wisdom of the city have greatly influenced me and helped me become the cricket player I am today. After two years away, I have come home because Mumbai always pushes you to be better,” continued Hardik, who led the Gujarat Titans to an IPL victory in 2022.

How Mumbai sealed the Hardik deal for IPL 2024

The Mumbai Indians were forced to let go of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green to sign Hardik at the Wankhede Stadium after he was traded to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 17.5 crore. In 2015, Hardik debuted his IPL when he signed a 10-lakh-rupee contract with the Mumbai Indians. Mumbai released the former GT ahead of the big transaction. Hardik led GT to two IPL finals after leaving Mumbai.

Also Read: CricViz Named Exclusive Data Analysis Partner for Star’s 2024 IPL and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Coverage

Pandya’s turning point in the IPL

“Recalling the 2015 IPL, coming from Baroda, it was a transformative experience for me. That was a crucial year for my work. My experience as a Mumbai Indians representative among seasoned players was essential. Your life changes when you get the opportunity to participate on such a large platform with such well-established athletes. I had the good fortune to be able to contribute significantly more to the knockout games. It was unbelievable to win two “Man of the Match” trophies in pivotal knockout matches. The MI skipper said, “It was the start of an incredible trip for me and a chapter I’ll always treasure.

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