In what would be the biggest trade deal of IPL history, Gujarat Titans captain Hardik Pandya made a sensational return to Mumbai Indians in a all-cash deal. It was shocking for many as Hardik led GT to IPL title on franchise’s debut as well as leading them to the final last season. Now, GT head coach Ashish Nehra has revealed his reaction on the trade deal worth Rs 15 Cr.
Ashish Nehra said he was not surprised by Hardik wanting to go back to Mumbai Indians.
“Hardik Pandya has not gone back to a team that has caused a huge surprise. He played for that team for so many years. He showed his desire to go back there,” Ashish Nehra said on JioCinema.
But what was Ashish Nehra’s reaction? After all, it was Nehra whose one phone call convinced Hardik Pandya to join newly-established Gujarat Titans in 2022.
Ashish Nehra explained that Gujarat Titans tried their best to retain Hardik Pandya. But as he wanted to go there, the management was happy to let him go.
“Our management’s nature is such that, we think if a player wants to go there, right. He should be happy and that’s why he has gone there again. Replacing someone like Hardik Pandya is difficult, but we tried our best,” Ashish Nehra explained.
However, despite going with the biggest purse at the auction, Gujarat Titans failed to land a like-for-like replacement of Hardik Pandya.
