In a major development, India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to lead the Ahmedabad-based franchise in the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The stylish all-rounder, who became an integral part of the Mumbai Indians set-up was released ahead of the mega-auction, which is just around the corner.
Over the years, Pandya had become an integral part of Mumbai Indians and has played an instrumental role in Mumbai India’s success in IPL. However, he wasn’t retained by the franchise, therefore, he will now either get picked by one of the two new franchises or will enter the auction pool.
For the unversed, before going into the mega-auctions the two new teams – Lucknow and Ahmedabad can pick a maximum of three players from the list of non-retained players. With Hardik Pandya, being one of the most celebrated stars in the Indian Premier League, he is expected to attract a lot of attention in the mega-auctions. But before that happens he is most likely to earn a contract from either of the two new franchises.
While no official confirmation has been made, Ahmedabad is looking forward to roping in Hardik Pandya as the captain of the franchise.
Well, if reports are to be believed then the CVC-owned Ahmedabad franchise will be appointing Hardik Pandya as the skipper for its maiden season in the Indian Premier League. A senior IPL source told PTI on the condition of anonymity.
“As far as we know, Hardik has been zeroed in on as the captain of the franchise. Hardik with his local connect and being a proven IPL performer for Mumbai Indians for so long was an obvious choice as captain and premier player.”
Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s spin sensation Rashid Khan can also get picked by Ahmedabad-based franchise. The source said:
“The franchise has almost finalised its deal with Afghan spin sensation Rashid Khan and dashing keeper-batter Ishan Kishan as their second and third picks from the draft. As of now, that’s what is finalised unless there are changes at the last moment,”
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