Speculation is rife that Gujarat Titans captain Hardik Pandya could be traded to Mumbai Indians ahead of the deadline for retention and release of players on Sunday.
Officials of both the franchises were tightlipped about the reported deal till late on Friday but various sources have confirmed to The Telegraph that talks have been going on for the past few days. There has been no consensus so far and an agreement hasn’t been reached.
Since Mumbai Indians don’t have much money left in their purse, they could have to release Cameron Green.
Mumbai Indians have been keen on Pandya since being unable to retain him during the mega auction when the two new franchises (Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants) were drafted into the fold in 2021. The franchise is looking at Pandya as someone who can take over the captaincy in a few years once Rohit Sharma decides to call it a day.
This year’s auction is in Dubai on December 19.
Cricketers like Rachin Ravindra, Gerald Coetzee, Travis Head and Azmatullah Omarzai who have excelled in the recently concluded World Cup will attract huge bids. Experienced players like Mitchell Starc, Chris Woakes and Pat Cummins will also be in demand as the franchises look to plug the loopholes.
Andre Russell of Kolkata Knight Riders. File photo
There is talk that Kolkata Knight Riders may release Shardul Thakur and Tim Southee to the auction pool. They have also decided to release Lockie Ferguson because the fast bowler has been plagued by injuries. KKR had paid Rs 10.75 crore to Gujarat Titans to get Ferguson and letting him go will significantly enhance their purse.
However, it is unlikely that they will part ways with Andre Russell and Sunil Narine. Russell’s performance last season drew a lot of flak and was largely responsible for the Knight Riders’ seventh-place finish in the 10-team league.
CSK, after deciding to release Ben Stokes, will also part ways with Kyle Jamieson.
