Reports: Hardik Pandya likely to lead Ahmedabad team in IPL 2022, Rashid Khan also roped in

In what can be called a major development, Hardik Pandya is set to lead the Ahmedabad-based franchise in the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The all-rounder, who served Mumbai Indians ever since his IPL debut in 2015, was released ahead of the upcoming mega auctions. Hence, he’ll either get picked by one of the two new franchises or will land in the auction pool.

For the unversed, the two franchises – Lucknow and Ahmedabad – can pick a maximum of three players from the list of non-retained players ahead of the bidding event. With Pandya being a proven star of this format, he’s most likely to earn a contract from one of the two new teams. While no official confirmation has come yet, Pandya hasn’t just been reportedly signed by Ahmedabad but is also set to lead the team.

Shreyas Iyer also in contention to lead Ahmedabad

The major development was carried out by veteran journalist K Shriniwas Rao. “Hardik Pandya will be the captain of the brand new Ahmedabad franchise (not Shreyas),” wrote the journalist in a tweet. It must be noted that the earlier reports suggested former Delhi Capitals batter Shreyas Iyer will lead the team.

However, Pandya has emerged as a new front-runner to take the position. Meanwhile, it was also learnt that leg-spinner Rashid Khan has also been picked by the Ahmedabad team. “They’re getting Rashid Khan on board too,” the tweet read further.

Hardik Pandya will be the captain of the brand new Ahmedabad franchise (not Shreyas). They're getting Rashid Khan on board too.

Action-packed week. : )

— KSR (@KShriniwasRao) January 10, 2022

Meanwhile, Pandya has been struggling with his fitness issues in the last couple of years. Hence, it would be interesting to see how he embraces captaincy, in case the reports turn out to be true. The all-rounder was last seen in the T20 World Cup 2021, where he faced massive backlash for his lackluster show. He couldn’t bowl much due to his back issues.

Pandya was dropped from the team since then and IPL 2022 is likely to witness his comeback over the 22 yards. Meanwhile, KL Rahul has reportedly been roped in as captain for the Lucknow team. Hence, it would be interesting to see who’ll be the initial picks of the two new IPL teams.