Gujarat Titans' trade involving Hardik Pandya falls through due to captaincy request.

Mumbai: Hardik Pandya's aspirations to leave the Mumbai Indians have encountered yet another setback. Reports indicate that the allrounder sought a return to the Gujarat Titans, the team he captained to an IPL championship in 2022 and a finals appearance in 2023. However, negotiations faltered when Pandya insisted on reclaiming the captaincy, a demand that the Titans were not prepared to meet.

While the franchise expressed interest in bringing back the 32-year-old player, they were unwilling to replace Shubman Gill, who has recently taken on the role of captain for both the Indian Test and ODI teams. A source familiar with the discussions noted, “Which team wouldn’t want Hardik? But his captaincy condition killed the deal.” Pandya thrived during his tenure with the Titans, where he not only rejuvenated his international career but also solidified his status as a leader. Nevertheless, insiders suggest that the Titans preferred him to return as a senior player rather than as captain.

Since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma in 2024, Pandya has faced a challenging journey. The Mumbai Indians finished last in his first season, managed to reach the playoffs in 2025, but regressed to ninth place this year. The transition from Rohit to Hardik sparked mixed reactions among the franchise's fan base, further complicating his leadership role.

Adding to the uncertainty surrounding his future, MI batting coach Kieron Pollard refrained from confirming Pandya's continuation as captain after another disappointing season. Pollard acknowledged the team's struggles, stating, “Yes, it might not have gone as well as he would have wanted, what we would have wanted, but I wouldn’t question anything at this time.” He emphasized the need for reflection and improvement as the franchise looks to rebound in the coming year.

Currently, Pandya is focused on regaining full fitness. He has been training at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he has been bowling up to 10 overs and practicing extensively in the nets. Sources indicate that he is expected to be available for India’s upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan, which begins in New Delhi on September 13.