Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has made a significant move in his Indian Premier League career by returning to his original IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians (MI), after a successful tenure with Gujarat Titans. Pandya, whose journey with MI began in 2015, expressed his deep connection with the team upon re-signing.
There was a sense of nostalgia and anticipation in the air as Hardik Pandya announced his reunion with the Mumbai-based franchise. “I am back. Rohit, Bumrah, Surya, Ishan, Polly (Pollard), Malinga. Come on let’s begin. The feeling of coming back to Mumbai is very special for a lot of reasons,” stated an elated Pandya in a video released by MI.
The dynamic all-rounder reminisced about his rise in cricket with MI, where he was first noticed in 2013, long before his debut in 2015. He affectionately pointed out that his journey of nearly a decade in professional cricket was marked with remarkable achievements and moments, all of which started at MI. Pandya acknowledged that the reality of being back at his cricketing birthplace has not yet completely sunk in, even as he feels overjoyed to rejoin the squad.
He further highlighted the unique and emotional bond he shares with MI’s owners and the fans. “Special bond with Akash [Ambani] and the whole family. They have been with me through thick and thin and it is much more emotional because it feels like I am coming back to my home, my family where it all started,” Pandya shared with heartfelt gratitude.
The Mumbai Indians’ fan base, lovingly referred to as ‘Paltan’, has supported Pandya since his first game, and he is certain that they will continue to do so. “Paltan, you supported me the first time, and all the memories have a special place in my heart. I know you will back me once again,” he confidently stated. Together, they have created history, and now Pandya is keen on making more exceptional memories with the team.
During his previous stint with MI, Pandya played 92 matches spanning from 2015 to 2021, where he amassed 1,476 runs at an impressive average of 27.33 and a striking rate of over 153. He has four half-centuries to his name, with the highest score being 91. Notably, he also contributed significantly with the ball, having taken 42 wickets, boasting the best bowling figures of 3/20.
Pandya’s contribution to Mumbai Indians cannot be overstated as he was a key player in their IPL victories, showcasing his prowess as an all-rounder and becoming a fan favorite. His departure from MI to play for Gujarat Titans saw him take on a leadership role and lead his team to significant success. Yet, this homecoming signifies a full-circle moment in Pandya’s career.
The cricket community is abuzz with the excitement of what this seasoned all-rounder will bring back to the iconic blue jersey of the Mumbai Indians. Fans and analysts alike are looking forward to the upcoming season as Pandya gears up to reforge his alliance with teammates like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Ishan Kishan under the celebrated Mumbai Indians banner.
As he thanks the Mumbai Indians for a ‘hardik’ (heartfelt) welcome back, the anticipation for the IPL’s next season grows, and spectators await to see if Pandya can once again help propel MI to clinch another coveted IPL title.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on World Cup 2023 and other cricket news as the sports world eagerly follows the journey of stars like Hardik Pandya and the ever-thrilling saga of the IPL.