'Kisi ko kisi ke kahin jane se koi fark nahi padta' - Mohammed Shami's take on Hardik Pandya leaving Gujarat Titans

Mumbai Indians dropped a bombshell ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction when they drafted in Hardik Pandya from the Gujarat Titans. The Baroda all-rounder was subsequently named as the captain of the side, replacing Rohit Sharma, who led Mumbai to five IPL titles. This decision faced massive criticism as fans of Rohit felt that the stalwart's contributions to the franchise were disrespected.

Hardik left the Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2022 and joined the Titans in their maiden appearance in the cash-rich league. He led them to the title in 2022 and last year, the team finished runner-up after losing to Chennai Super Kings in the final. Mohammed Shami played a crucial role for the Titans in both seasons, establishing himself as the go-to bowler for Hardik.

Shami, who was recently conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award, was asked about Hardik's departure from the Titans and how big an impact it could prove to be. The 33-year-old said that it doesn't matter if players switch franchises as nobody is signed for a lifetime.

"Kiso ko kisi ke kahin jane se koi fark nahi padta. (No one cares about anyone (Hardik Pandya) leaving the franchise). Hardik wanted to leave and he left. He did well as a captain as Gujarat made it to the final twice and also won the title once. He wasn’t tied up to Gujarat for a lifetime," Shami said during an interview with Sports24.

You can’t stop anyone as it is part and parcel of the game: Mohammed Shami

The highest wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup 2023 said that Shubman Gill, who has been announced as Gujarat's new captain for the IPL 2024, would gain experience and there's a possibility that he could move elsewhere too. Shami reiterated that leaving a franchise and joining another one is quite natural in the sport.

"Shubman Gill will also become experienced and there is a possibility of him playing for another franchise in the future. You can’t stop anyone as it is part and parcel of the game," he added.

Shami is currently recuperating from an ankle injury. He missed the Test series against South Africa and hasn't been named in the squad for the first two home Tests against England. The veteran would be hoping to get fit in time for the last three Tests in the five-match series.