Mumbai Indians (MI) have released the premier all-rounder, Hardik Pandya ahead of the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Zaheer Khan, who is a part of Mumbai’s team management has revealed the reason behind their plan to release the star cricketer. MI retained Rohit Sharma (INR 16 crores), Jasprit Bumrah (INR 12 crores), Suryakumar Yadav (INR 8 crores), and Kieron Pollard (INR 6 crores).

Along with Hardik Pandya, a few other infamous cricketers like Ishan Kishan, Krunal Pandya were also released due to the retention policies in place. Speaking on releasing Hardik, Zaheer Khan stated that retention has not been easy as they have to think about various aspects and angles. However, the former Indian pacer is confident that Hardik Pandya will soon return to his best.

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During a recent chat with Times of India, Zaheer Khan said, “Absolutely (Hardik can regain his full fitness). Hardik is very keen on that. The retention calls usually take into consideration various aspects and angles. The debates are usually very long (laughs). It is not an easy process when you set yourself up for a big auction and say goodbye to all players with a heavy heart with whom you spent a lot of time and energy.”

Zaheer Khan, who is regarded as the best Indian left-arm fast bowler mentioned that there are plenty of great talents in domestic cricket but the selectors need to wait for the right time to have a left-arm pacer in their wings.

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Talking about the prospect of left-arm fast bowlers in Team India, Zaheer Khan said, “There are plenty of good talents in the circuit. It is just about the timing. Maybe the wait is a little longer (laughs). If you have that kind of option (left-arm pace), it’s a luxury. But you need to get someone ready to play at the highest level.”