The India National Cricket Team star all-rounder and Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya has reportedly attracted interest from several teams, including Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as the IPL 2027 trade window is still open.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have also been linked with the Indian all-rounder. However, there is no major progress in the trade talks yet. Mumbai Indians (MI) have also not confirmed that Pandya is available for trade. Amid this, Hardik Pandya leaves no stone unturned in 2027 World Cup preparations.
Mumbai Indians may keep Hardik Pandya
Now, it is being said that MI could decide to keep Hardik Pandya for IPL 2027. As reported by Cricbuzz, there have been calls between Mumbai Indians and teams interested in Pandya over the trade deals, but the discussions are still at an early stage.
Surprisingly, the MI sources hinted that the “all-rounder may not be traded at all.” The five-time IPL champions are well aware that Pandya gives them more than just runs and wickets. He brings experience, leadership, and balance because he can contribute with both bat and ball.
Axar Patel could be an option for MI; the KKR deal seems tricky
However, the MI can seriously look at the possible trade that involves Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel. Axar could give Mumbai more strength in the spin department and also provide another Indian batting option in the middle order.
This could help MI change their overseas combination and bring an extra overseas fast bowler into the playing XI. However, this deal is still only a possibility, and there is not any major update on it. Amid this, Zaheer Khan reveals why Gurnoor Brar can become India’s next pace sensation.
Apart from Delhi Capitals (DC), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly interested in Pandya, but they are not keen to give away their major players.
Cameron Green could be considered as part of a possible deal, but his availability is the main issue because the Ashes will be played around the IPL. So, a Pandya trade between KKR and MI does not look easy at the moment.
Why has CSK not yet made a serious move?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have also been linked with Hardik Pandya, but the franchise has reportedly not started serious discussions about the Indian all-rounder yet.
CSK is first focusing on appointing their new head coach after parting ways with Stephen Fleming. The new coach will have an important role in deciding the team’s plans for the next season.
The Chennai Super Kings are expected to finalize the coach after discussions involving CEO Kasi Viswanathan, Rupa Gurunath, MS Dhoni, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Only after that could CSK properly look at the Pandya trade possibilities.
Why might MI not trade their captain?
The biggest problem for Mumbai Indians is that trading Hardik Pandya could make another IPL team stronger. Even though his recent numbers have not been that impressive, Hardik remains a proven Indian all-rounder who can bat aggressively, bowl important overs, and lead a team.
So, MI will want a very strong return before agreeing to any trade. Given the situation, Pandya looks more likely to stay with Mumbai Indians but every trade rumour can be turned into reality.
