Gujarat Titans retain Hardik Pandya, Mumbai Indians release Jofra Archer

• Gujarat Titans retain Hardik Pandya, putting an end to speculations about his return to Mumbai Indians
• Mumbai Indians release fast bowler Jofra Archer, signaling a notable change in their squad composition
• Shahbaz Ahmad is traded from RCB to SRH, while Mayank Dagar moves from SRH to RCB in the IPL trading window

In a move that put an end to the swirling speculations, Gujarat Titans have retained Hardik Pandya for the upcoming IPL season, dismissing rumors of the all-rounder's return to Mumbai Indians. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in their debut year in 2021 and secured the runners-up position in 2022, has been a pivotal player for the team.

The decision was revealed as part of GT's list of retained players, concluding a period of uncertainty around Pandya's IPL franchise affiliation. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians have opted to release fast bowler Jofra Archer, marking a significant change in their squad composition ahead of the IPL 2024 season.

In the IPL trading window leading up to the 2024 season, all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmad has been traded from Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), while bowler Mayank Dagar moves from SRH to RCB. Shahbaz Ahmad, having played 39 IPL matches with 14 wickets to his name, has been part of RCB since 2020 and now embarks on a new chapter with SRH. Mayank Dagar, a right-handed all-rounder, transitions to RCB from SRH, bringing his skills to a new franchise. The stage is set for the IPL 2024 auction in Dubai on December 19, promising further team reshuffles and player acquisitions.