"No Point In Holding Back Someone Who Really Wants To Leave…" - Aakash Chopra Taunts Hardik Pandya

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra posted a cryptic message amid rumors of Hardik Pandya‘s return to the Mumbai Indians (MI) from the Gujarat Titans (GT). Aakash Chopra suggested that there’s no benefit in retaining someone who really wants to leave.

Reports suggest the possibility of Pandya returning to his former franchise before the IPL 2024 mini-auction. The 30-year-old is likely to be traded with MI skipper Rohit Sharma. Both franchises must make a decision as the IPL transfer window closes on November 26.

Make The Most From That Transfer – Aakash Chopra

Reflecting on recent developments, Aakash Chopra stated that the focus should be on maximizing gains from the transfer if the player wants to leave the franchise. Chopra highlighted that there’s no benefit in retaining the player.

“There’s no point in holding back someone who really wants to leave… The objective thereafter is to make the most from that transfer…” Aakash Chopra tweeted.

The all-rounder began his IPL career with the Mumbai Indians and played a crucial role in their victories in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020. However, Mumbai released him before the IPL 2022 Mega Auction, and he was acquired by the Gujarat Titans for ₹15 crore.

Pandya was appointed as the captain of the Ahmedabad-based franchise ahead of the IPL 2022. He led the team to two finals, including the title victory in their maiden season. Meanwhile, Mumbai failed to reach the summit clash in the last edition of the tournament.

Hardik Pandya Has Been In Talks With Mumbai Indians – Report

There have been confirmed talks about Hardik Pandya potentially moving to the Mumbai Indians, but the deal is yet to be signed, according to the Times of India. The report added that the finalization of the deal depends on the two franchises working out the details.

“Yes, I can confirm that there has been talks of Hardik going to MI. There remains a chance that he might switch sides but at this moment, nothing more can be confirmed as of now as the deal is yet to be signed.” 

“Hardik has been in talks with Mumbai Indians since the last IPL got over. Hardik and MI reached the decision a couple of months before the World Cup. The Titans management and Hardik have had growing differences. It’s up to the two franchises to firm up the modalities and formalize the deal. An announcement will be made only after that,” a BCCI source told TOI.

Also read: “Will Hardik Pandya Captain Mumbai Indians?” – Aakash Chopra