3 Players Gujarat Titans will target in IPL 2024 Mini Auction
Mumbai Indians have reportedly acquired Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans ahead of the IPL 2024 Auction, a move that has raised eyebrows as the Ahmedabad-based franchise allows their skipper to leave after […]
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Nov 29, 2023 3:32 pm
Hardik Pandya Replacement for GT
Mumbai Indians have reportedly acquired Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans ahead of the IPL 2024 Auction, a move that has raised eyebrows as the Ahmedabad-based franchise allows their skipper to leave after two impressive seasons. This transfer has added ₹15 crore to the Gujarat Titans’ purse for the IPL 2024 Auction. To compensate for Hardik Pandya’s departure, the Titans will need to make strategic signings during the auction.
In the past two seasons, Hardik Pandya not only excelled as the team’s captain but also made valuable contributions as a middle-order batsman and a pace bowler. His absence is expected to impact the balance of the Gujarat Titans. But, the auction will be taking place on December 19, the team management will certainly be looking into finding replacement for Hardik Pandya.
Let us look at some of the options available for the franchise at auction;
Pat Cummins
In 2023, Australian captain Pat Cummins experienced the pinnacle of his career, leading Australia to victories in the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup 2023. Under his leadership, Australia also retained the Ashes in the UK. Cummins, who has substantial captaincy experience, has played 42 IPL matches for the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Delhi Capitals.
Given the Gujarat Titans’ need for a pace-bowling all-rounder with captaincy skills, Pat Cummins emerges as an ideal choice. However, the Titans must weigh the consideration that Cummins may prioritize Australia’s international commitments over the IPL and might even leave the team early to fulfill his national duties.
Another prominent Australian player, Travis Head can be included in the considerations for the Gujarat Titans. The Titans favor players who excel under pressure, and Head has demonstrated this ability, notably in the WTC Final and World Cup Final, showcasing his capability to score significantly against top-notch bowling attacks regardless of conditions.
In the T20 format, the southpaw is typically bats in the middle-order. He presents a viable option to fill the number four slot in Gujarat Titans’ middle-order, potentially stepping into the role previously occupied by Hardik Pandya. Additionally, Head offers the versatility of bowling a few spin overs if required by the Titans.
Daryl Mitchell
New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell is currently in the best form of his career, a performance evident in the ODI World Cup 2023 held in India. Mitchell emerged as the second-highest run-scorer for the Blackcaps, accumulating 552 runs in nine innings across 10 matches, boasting an impressive average of 69.
Although Mitchell joined the IPL in 2022 with the Rajasthan Royals, his appearances have been limited to just two matches, where he scored 33 runs. Notably, Mitchell is a valuable asset with the ball, showcasing the ability to make an impact in the middle overs and disrupt partnerships.
