'Use RTM For Hardik Pandya' - Jadeja's Bold Mega Auction Strategy For Mumbai Indians
Hardik Pandya's retention in jeopardy ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction (@Hardikgallery/X.com)
Former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja has suggested that five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians (MI), should take a bold approach with their skipper Hardik Pandya and release him ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
IPL 2025 mega auction is set to be a blockbuster thriller as the governing council set the maximum retention cap to 6 players, including RTM cards.
For a star-studded franchise like Mumbai Indians (MI), the decision making will be tough as they have a large pool of superstars to choose from.
Ajay Jadeja urge MI to release Hardik Pandya!
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja told JioCinema that MI can retain former captain Rohit Sharma, ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah and star batter Suryakumar Yadav.
"I'd say, players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah, are undoubtedly the three players who will be retained by MI. It is impossible to get these players if put up for auction. Moreover, I think that MI can use their RTM card for Hardik Pandya," Jadeja said.
In a bold take, Jadeja suggested MI release captain Hardik Pandya only to re-sign him back in the mega auction using the RTM card.
"Yes, the kind of player he is, you might not get him either (in the auction). But there is a chance that his injury tendencies might make the other franchises not be able to open up their banks for him," he added.
While the ex-cricketer understands the risk associated with the move, he believes that Hardik’s injury history could keep many rival franchises from bidding significantly.
PBKS keeping a watch on Rohit Sharma
In an interesting development, PBKS head of cricket development, Sanjay Bangar revealed that if Rohit Sharma enters IPL 2025 mega auction, he will fetch a record breaking price.
He added that PBKS will also be the mix, given the purse power left with them after the retention. Notably, IPL has mandated all franchises to confirm their retention before 5.00 PM IST on October 31.