'Mumbai Indians struck gold': R Ashwin offers perspective on Hardik Pandya's probable MI return

With the World Cup now in the rearview mirror, the focus has shifted towards the upcoming IPL season in the year 2024. The buzz has been rising ever since the trade and retention window opened up. IPL teams retained major names in their squad, while some of them went through a swap and will now represent different franchises in the upcoming year. But Hardik Pandya stole the spotlight after reports surfaced that he will be heading back to Mumbai Indians.

Three things you need to know

• Hardik Pandya led the Gujarat Titans to a title win in the IPL
• The Pandya-led GT were the runner-ups in the 2023 edition of the IPL
• reports suggest that Hardik is set for a Mumbai reunion 

Also Read: Mayank Dagar to RCB, Sunrisers receive new player as IPL announces new trades ahead of 2024 season

R Ashwin's mega take on the likely Pandya-MI reunion

While the Hardik Pandya-Mumbai Indians link hasn't been made official, the anticipations remains at an all-time high. Reports firmly suggest that it is a done deal, and the announcement is yet to be made. R Ashwin also offered his take on the saga. He expressed that if the rumors are true, then Mumbai will hit the ultimate jackpot with Pandya. 

In an Instagram video, Ashwin said:

If it's true Mumbai Indians have struck gold. So if it's true and it's a complete cash deal from whatever I read. There's no player that Mumbai is giving, Mumbai Indians have never given players on trade.

I don't think it has happened ever. But how does that XI look like if Hardik goes back who's an MI grown player

Also Read: Rusty Theron's unbelievable catch takes Legends League Cricket 2023 by storm | WATCH

Hardik Pandya-MI announcement could be made today

There are a lot of burning questions about the IPL teams and whether they will have their top players or not. A big question mark is also looming on whether CSK wants to keep Ben Stokes or whether the Punjab Kings will drop Sam Curran off the team.

The IPL teams will present the list of players they will be releasing today as it is the last day of the trade and retention period. Several other details will also be revealed via a special show at Star Sports between 4 PM-6 PM.