Cricket News

Aakash Chopra sheds light on Gujarat Titans’ challenges in absence of Hardik Pandya and Mohammed Shami

The 17th edition of the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) is just around the corner, and excitement is palpable amongst fans, players, and the entire cricketing fraternity. As anticipation reaches a fever pitch, a lot of eyes will be on the Gujarat Titans, last season’s finalists. Having only come into the system in 2022, the Titans have emerged as a strong force. However, this year’s journey for the Titans might be a tad rockier than their last couple of runs.

The Titans will be navigating uncharted territory under a new captain, as the dynamic Hardik Pandya is no longer a part of their side. Shubman Gill be at the helm of affairs this season. Additionally, they face a significant setback with the absence of the fiery pacer Mohammed Shami, who will miss the IPL due to an injury. These crucial departures pose considerable challenges to the team’s balance and performance.

In the face of these obstacles, the onus will fall on the remaining players to step up and fill the void left by Pandya and Shami. Youngsters and experienced campaigners alike will have to showcase their mettle and rise to the occasion.

“They might have to compromise on a spinner”- Aakash Chopra

In a video that he posted on his official YouTube Channel, former India opener, Aakash Chopra raised concerns about Mohammed Shami’s absence and its potential impact on the team’s balance. He questioned whether the loss of Hardik Pandya, who was previously the captain, would force them to compromise on playing two overseas spinners due to foreign player restrictions in the IPL. Last year, Gujarat thrived by playing both Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad. Chopra stated that the Titans might have to make a slight toss-up regarding their bowling attack composition in the absence of Shami and with Hardik no longer playing.

“Gujarat have a Karamati (marvelous) Khan named Rashid Khan. He is absolutely outstanding. His injury would be fine by the time IPL comes. Then they have a bowler named Noor Ahmad. Both of them play in the XI for sure these days. However, will Shami’s absence make a difference, will they not be able to play two overseas spinners because of Hardik leaving? It is going to be a slight toss-up. They might have to compromise on a spinner,” the 46-year-old said.