"What Happened Behind Closed Doors...": AB de Villers Reacts To Hardik Pandya's IPL Trade

As Hardik Pandya faces severe criticism from several quarters for his transfer to Mumbai Indians, he has received some much-needed support from South Africa great AB de Villiers. The Indian allrounder has sealed a sensational transfer from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians ahead of the next season of the IPL.

Not many were expecting the all-rounder to leave Gujarat Titans after the highly successful seasons in the last two years. He was released by Mumbai Indians in 2022 and was picked by the Titans in the draft format as they prepared for their first-ever IPL season. The franchise also appointed Hardik Pandya as the captain and he justified the call by leading the team to the IPL title.

In the second season earlier this year, Hardik Pandya enjoyed another productive season with the Gujarat-based outfit and led them to the final where they lost against Chennai Super Kings. But despite being made the captain of the team and enjoying two impressive seasons, the India star decided to leave Gujarat Titans for the Mumbai-based outfit.

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AB de Villiers backs Hardik Pandya:

Hardik Pandya has been accused of choosing money over loyalty and legacy after his move to Mumbai Indians. Not only the fans but several experts have also criticized him for the move. However, AB de Villiers has backed the former Gujarat Titans skipper, saying that he made the call keeping his future in mind. The former South Africa captain also stated that the Gujarat fans will be upset with Hardik Pandya.

“There will still be some upset fans over there. It was a big move, but at the end of the day, it is the man’s career that is the most important. That must have been the priority for him, and he finally decided to make that move,” said AB de Villiers in a video posted on his YouTube channel.

“What happened behind closed doors, none of us will know. Ultimately, I think it is good news for cricketing fans. This whole thing is exciting. With this trading window and retention and the auction coming up, it has really become a business,” he added.