The cricketing fraternity is abuzz with speculation as the news of Hardik Pandya's possible move from Gujarat Titans (GT) to Mumbai Indians (MI) gains traction.
There have been multiple reports stating that GT are considering asking for Rohit Sharma or Ishan Kishan for Hardik Pandya. However, that would not be the case if the latest reports are to be believed.
Pandya's move to MI from GT does not involve another player moving the other way. In fact, it is reported to be a straightforward money deal between MI and GT. n fact, this will be the biggest player trade in terms of money in the history of IPL.
MI are all set to shell out a whopping sum of INR 15 crores to sign Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans. GT had picked Pandya up for 15 crores in 2021 and MI will match that salary.
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As the talismanic all-rounder considers a return to his former IPL team, one question looms large – who will don the captain's armband for Gujarat Titans in his absence?
Who will captain Gujarat Titans if Hardik Pandya returns to Mumbai Indians?
Option 1: Shubman Gill
A young and promising talent, Shubman Gill, has been making waves in the cricketing world. While relatively inexperienced, his mature and composed batting style suggests leadership potential. Gill's elevation to captaincy could be a strategic move for GT to build for the future.
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Option 2: Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan, the Afghan leg-spin sensation, is no stranger to leadership responsibilities. With experience as a captain in various T20 leagues, Rashid brings strategic acumen and a deep understanding of the game.
His ability to lead by example with both bat and ball could make him a compelling choice to steer the Gujarat Titans. In fact, he is the current vice-captain and led the side against the Chennai Super Kings when Pandya was nursing an injury.
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Option 3: Kane Williamson
If the Titans opt for experience and poise, Kane Williamson could be the ideal candidate. The New Zealand skipper possesses a wealth of captaincy experience, having led his national side with distinction.
Williamson's calm demeanour and astute cricketing brain make him a reliable option to guide the team through high-pressure situations. Moreover, he has led Sunrisers Hyderabad to the playoffs in 2018 and 2020 and is well-versed in the conditions of the IPL.
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Option 4: David Miller
South African cricketer David Miller, known for his explosive batting in the shortest format, could be a dark horse for the captaincy role. Miller's experience in T20 leagues around the world, coupled with his ability to finish games under pressure, could bring a dynamic and aggressive captaincy style to the Gujarat Titans.
He had led South Africa in the past against Pakistan, England and Ireland and was one of the contenders for the post until the board preferred Aiden Markram over him. In franchise cricket, he has led Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Barbados Royals and Paarl Royals which has earned him significant experience in leading a side.
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