Gujarat Titans, one of the prominent franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), is gearing up for the upcoming season with a mix of anticipation and challenges. Head coach Ashish Nehra recently addressed the media, shedding light on various aspects of the team’s preparation, including the departure of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya.
Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in their maiden year and steered them to the final last year, has returned to Mumbai Indians, his former franchise, as their skipper for the upcoming season. Nehra acknowledged the invaluable experience Pandya brought to the team and admitted that replacing him would not be easy. However, he emphasized the need for the team to move forward and adapt to new circumstances.
“In any sport, you have to move on. You cannot buy experience, and to replace someone like Hardik Pandya isn’t going to be easy,” Nehra remarked. He acknowledged Pandya’s decision to return to Mumbai Indians, stating that he did not attempt to convince him otherwise. Nehra’s candid admission reflects the pragmatic approach adopted by the team management in dealing with player movements and transitions.
The coach also expressed his views on the evolving nature of the IPL, drawing parallels with international soccer leagues where player trades and transfers are common. “The manner in which the sport (cricket) is moving, we will have trades and transfers like we see in international soccer. It’s a new challenge for him, and maybe he will learn something new,” Nehra commented, highlighting the dynamic nature of the cricketing landscape.
With Pandya’s departure, the focus now shifts to emerging talents like Shubman Gill, who has been appointed as the team’s new captain. Nehra expressed confidence in Gill’s leadership abilities and emphasized the team’s role in nurturing his growth, both as a player and as a leader. “We as a franchise would like to help him grow more as a person than as a captain. If he grows as a person, he will grow more as a captain going forward,” Nehra stated.
The coach drew parallels with Pandya’s journey, citing his own experience when Pandya was appointed as the team’s skipper. “Before Hardik joined GT, he had no prior experience of captaining any side. There are 10 IPL teams, and you will see more and more new captains,” Nehra remarked, underlining the importance of providing opportunities for young players to excel in leadership roles.
In light of injuries to key players like Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan, Nehra discussed the team’s strategy for player replacements. He expressed confidence in the team’s depth and highlighted the contributions of seasoned players like Umesh Yadav. Additionally, he expressed optimism about the potential of promising talents like R Sai Kishore, who have the opportunity to make an impact in the tournament.
Ashish Nehra also emphasized the importance of playing to the team’s strengths, particularly in the context of spin bowling. With Rashid Khan’s availability uncertain, Nehra underscored the role of spinners like Jayant Yadav and Sai Kishore in filling the void. “I am a firm believer in playing to your strengths,” Nehra affirmed, indicating the team’s readiness to adapt to different conditions.
Ashish Nehra reflected on the challenges and opportunities facing Gujarat Titans as they prepare for the IPL season. While acknowledging the departure of key players like Pandya, he remained optimistic about the team’s prospects and expressed confidence in the abilities of emerging talents. With a blend of experience and youth, Gujarat Titans aim to make a mark in the upcoming IPL tournament.
