The transfer of Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans (GT) to Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the IPL 2024 auction has shook the cricketing world. Many consider Hardik’s departure to be a major setback to the franchise because he guided GT to back-to-back IPL finals, winning the first one.
In an Instagram video, former Australian left-arm wristspinner Brad Hogg stated Gujarat has what it took to reach the final of the upcoming IPL season as well.
Brad Hogg had this to say about Hardik Pandya:
“Gujarat Titans fans you might be a bit upset that Hardik Pandya has gone back to the Mumbai Indians. Don’t feel betrayed. He has done a good job for you. He has got you to the finals twice as captain and you won one title while he has been at the helm. But there’s been some big money exchange for Hardik. I still feel you will be in the finals next year.”
Brad Hogg
Hogg also praised Hardik for setting a good example for GT while dealing with the disappointment of leaving MI. He went on to say:
“You got to feel for Hardik. He started our at Mumbai Indians. He wanted to play for him. He was distraught that he had to leave. It shows good character that while he wasn’t able to play for the team he wanted to, he still stepped up and led that team with high quality.”
Brad Hogg
Brad Hogg explains the advantages of Hardik Pandya’s trade to MI
MI learned that Cameron Green was most effective when batting in the top order, forcing Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma to bat at No. 4 and No. 5, respectively.
But now that Hardik is back, Brad Hogg feels the all-rounder can fill in nicely at No. 5, freeing up SKY and Tilak to face more deliveries. He stated:
“Now that Hardik Pandya has gone back to the Mumbai Indians, this provides a better balance to their batting line-up and it helped Hardik to come and help Tim David out at the backend and move Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak up the order where they are best suited.”
Brad Hogg
The Mumbai Indians still have INR 17.75 crore in their bank account and may aim to bolster their bowling department during the forthcoming auction.