Gujarat Titans have appointed Shubman Gill as their captain for the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 2022 champions announced their captain after formalizing the transfer of original skipper Hardik Pandya to Mumbai Indians.
Gujarat Titans Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki said, “Shubman Gill has seen his growth in stature and status at the highest level of the game over the last two years. We have seen him mature not only as a batsman but also as a leader in cricket. Have seen it happen.” His contributions on the field have established Gujarat Titans as a force to be reckoned with, guiding the team through a successful campaign in 2022 and a strong performance in 2023. His maturity and skill is evident in his on-field performances and we are extremely excited to begin a new journey under the leadership of a young leader like Shubman.”
On the announcement, Shubman Gill said, “I am delighted and proud to take over the captaincy of Gujarat Titans and thank the franchise for trusting me to lead such a great team. We have had two amazing seasons and I am Looking forward to leading the team with our exciting cricket.”
Shubman Gill has so far played 33 matches for the Titans in the IPL across two seasons, scoring an unprecedented 1373 runs. He won the title in his first season in 2022 and in 2023, despite contributing 890 runs in 16 matches, the franchise was an exception.”
Mumbai Indians welcomes Hardik Pandya (back)
Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians have welcomed Pandya into their team. “We are looking forward to Hardik’s homecoming! This is our Mumbai Indians have a joyous reunion with the Dion family! From being a young talent for Mumbai Indians to now being a Team India star, Hardik has come a long way and we are excited for what he will achieve in the future!”
Akash Ambani said, “I am very happy to see Hardik back at Mumbai Indians. It is a happy homecoming. He provides great balance to whichever team he plays for. Hardik’s first IPL with family. “The tenure has been extremely successful and we hope he will be even more successful in his second term.”
“Hardik’s return marks his homecoming to the #OneFamily where he reunites with Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and the team. He came to prominence first for MI and then for India in 2016 Made his debut.” Said in a release from MI.
Pandya first joined MI in 2015 and stayed with them till the 2021 season after which he was released and was immediately signed by new entrants, Gujarat Titans. He led the Titans in two seasons – once to the title (in 2022, their inaugural campaign) and again to the runners-up finish (2023). For MI, he has played 92 matches across seven seasons, scoring over 1400 runs and taking 42 wickets.”