Controversy Emerges Before IPL 2024 Kickoff: Mohammed Shami’s Offer Raises Eyebrows for Gujarat Team

The imminent Indian Premier League (IPL) auction scheduled for December 19 has drawn widespread attention.

However, a recent revelation alleges direct negotiations between a team and a player, a breach of IPL regulations, stirring agitation within the Gujarat Titans franchise.

In an interview, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Gujarat Titans disclosed that another team had approached fast bowler Mohammad Shami, but Shami opted to remain with the Gujarat franchise.

Ahead of IPL 2024, Gujarat Titans faced a setback as their captain, Hardik Pandya, departed for Mumbai Indians. Speculation arose about Mohammad Shami’s departure, which did not come to fruition.

Col Arvinder Singh, the COO of Gujarat Titans, emphasized that IPL rules permit player approaches only through their respective teams.

The direct approach made to Mohammad Shami breached these regulations. Gujarat’s team management expressed strong displeasure, deeming the incident entirely inappropriate.

The COO expressed frustration, highlighting their belated awareness of the incident, deeming it unacceptable. Direct contact with players or support staff circumvents authorized procedures.

The IPL 2024 auction, featuring around 1200 registered players, is scheduled for December 19. Teams have disclosed the list of players retained and released ahead of the auction.

Gujarat Titans had agreed to release Hardik Pandya to Mumbai Indians, averting any conflict. Subsequently, Shubman Gill assumed the captaincy of Gujarat Titans’ youth team.

This upcoming IPL season marks the third edition for Gujarat Titans, having secured victory in one of the initial two seasons and finishing as runners-up in another.