Bharat Express

Replacing Hardik Pandya a Challenge: Gujarat Titans Coach Ashish Nehra Opens Up on Star Player’s Departure

The former India pacer said the franchise will back Shubman Gill irrespective of the results in the next edition of the IPL.

Hardik Pandya and Ashish Nehra

Hardik Pandya and Ashish Nehra

In the aftermath of Hardik Pandya’s departure to Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans’ head coach, Ashish Nehra, acknowledges the challenge of replacing such a versatile player. However, he expresses confidence in Shubman Gill’s ability to lead the team in the upcoming IPL season. In a virtual post-auction press meet, Nehra emphasized Gill’s maturity and cricketing acumen. The franchise, committed to Gill’s leadership, looks beyond immediate results.

Nehra discussed the intense battle during the auction for Mitchell Starc, eventually acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for a record Rs 24.75 crore. While not surprised by Starc’s high valuation, Nehra emphasized the importance of securing a proven fast bowler for the team. Meanwhile, MI head coach Mark Boucher is pleased with the pace attack, having signed South African quick Gerald Coetzee and Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Madhushanka.

Also read: Liverpool In Semi Finals: Won Over West Ham With Remarkable 5-1 Score

“We made the decision to go for him (Coetzee) because he is a young, up-and-coming superstar. While Madhushanka is a three-phase bowler. He swings the new ball and has good change-ups at the death. I’m sure he’ll add a lot of value to our team,” said Boucher.