As rumours over Hardik Pandya’s move to Mumbai Indians are still buzzing, an interesting fact has emerged ahead of IPL 2024 auctions. HP is no where to be found in GT’s last few videos posted on their social media channel on Instagram. Pandya’s move to MI started making the rounds ahead of the deadline for the submission of the retention list ahead of the mini auction and IPL 2024.
The recent videos posted on GT’s social media channel feature the likes of Shubman Gill, Mathew Wade, Rashid Khan and so on. There is, however, no sign of Hardik Pandya in these videos, inciting the specualtions of his rumoured move to MI. Take a look at some of the recent posts by GT.
Hardik Pandya missing from GT’s social media posts ahead of IPL 2024
How can MI afford Hardik Pandya?
Option 1: Release Cameron Green:
Mumbai Indians paid a mammoth Rs 17.5 cr for Australian star Cameron Green, the most expensive signing for the side till date. Bagged for this massive amount after creating waves in the international stage, Green could be a possible release for MI from their squad in return for Hardik Pandya. Nevertheless, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the side deciding to buy back Green for a lesser price after releasing him.
Green’s release would mean MI would pay 15 cr to Hardik Pandya and yet have Rs 2.5 cr left in their purse.
Option 2: Retain Green, Release Ishan Kishan
MI’s option number 2 could be the release of wicket-keeper batsman Ishan Kishan, with of course buy back on their agenda. Mumbai Indians had to shell out Rs 15.25 Cr for the Jharkhand youngster.
That will free up MI’s purse for Hardik Pandya. But they need to release players like Jofra Archer to even try for Ishan at the auction.
Option 3: Release Jofra Archer & Chris Jordan
Another option is to release injured Jofra Archer (8 Cr) as well as struggling Chris Jordan (2 Cr). That would free up Rs 10 Cr. With Rs 5.5 Crore already in the bank, that should be enough to trade Hardik Pandya in. Releasing Riley Meredith (Rs 1.5 Cr) would further increase the fund.