Irfan Pathan has recommended an all-rounder who could serve as an ideal replacement for Hardik Pandya in the Gujarat Titans squad. The Gujarat-based team faces a challenging task in the upcoming IPL auction as they seek to fill the void left by their former captain.
After emerging as champions in the 2022 edition, Gujarat Titans made headlines by releasing their captain, Hardik Pandya, in an all-cash trade deal. The trade saw Pandya move to Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024 player auction scheduled to occur in Dubai on December 19.
Hardik Pandya served as the captain for Gujarat Titans in the last two seasons, experiencing significant success. In their inaugural IPL season in 2022, Pandya led the team to the title. Subsequently, earlier this year, under his leadership, Gujarat Titans finished as runners-up in the tournament.
During those two seasons, Hardik Pandya contributed significantly, amassing over 800 runs and claiming 11 wickets. Recognized as one of the premier all-rounders globally, filling the void left by Pandya poses a considerable challenge for any team. Despite Gujarat Titans naming Shubman Gill as their new captain, the anticipation surrounds the announcement of Pandya’s replacement.
Irfan Pathan Named Hardik Pandya’s Replacement In Gujarat Titans
In the quest to find a successor for Hardik Pandya in the Gujarat Titans squad, Irfan Pathan has suggested that Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai might be a suitable replacement. Pathan shared his insights during a preview of the auction on Star Sports, offering potential options for the Gujarat Titans to consider. Replying to this, Irfan Pathan said:
“Looking at the Gujarat Titans, they are missing out on Hardik Pandya. Obviously, they are missing out on a leader and a guy who can actually do both (bat and ball) equally really well. Who is there at the auction table?”
He added: “I see Azmatullah Omarzai going to Gujarat Titans because he is a perfect fit. We have Rashid Khan there as well, who can actually get the best out of his countryman. Apart from an all-rounder, they require a proper fast bowler there. They need to go for that extra pace and they have a good purse available,”
Azmatullah Omarzai showcased a remarkable performance in the recent World Cup held in India, drawing praise even from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. The Afghan all-rounder demonstrated his skills with the bat, accumulating 353 runs, including three half-centuries, and also contributed with 7 wickets.
