Hardik Pandya has become one of the most popular names in the IPL trade market after deciding to leave Mumbai Indians following the five-time champions’ disappointing 2026 campaign. According to ToI, as many as seven franchises have expressed interest in signing the 32-year-old Indian all-rounder, with only Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad staying out of the race.
Also read: ‘Mentally stressed’ Hardik Pandya ‘is done with Mumbai Indians’
Chennai Super Kings entered the contest later than the others but are now locked in an intriguing battle with Shahrukh Khan-owned Kolkata Knight Riders while Rajasthan Royals are also firmly in contention. Hardik Pandya is considered the ideal person for CSK. However, there is no certainty that the captaincy will be handed over to him if the measure comes to fruition.
KKR, on the other hand, are looking for a captain and could offer Hardik Pandya the leadership role. Rajasthan Royals are also willing to offer captaincy and a long-term future to Hardik Pandya. It now remains to be seen how Mumbai Indians approach the situation, given the huge interest in their captain.
According to ToI, communication channels between Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders are currently active. While neither franchise has confirmed negotiations, several possibilities are being explored. Questions remain over whether CSK would need to release a player, whether a cash deal could be reached or whether KKR possess a player valuable enough to make the trade work. There is also a possibility that the negotiations could hit a roadblock similar to the KL Rahul situation last year.
KKR fan pages on social media had sparked a rumor that they might offer Cameron Green to MI as part of the deal. CSK have adopted a patient approach as speculations over Hardik Pandya’s future have gained momentum. The franchise is believed to be timing its move much like it did during last season’s blockbuster trade involving Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. CSK are currently considered to be in a strong position to secure Pandya’s signature, although late complications cannot be ruled out because player swaps in the IPL are rarely straightforward. According to the report, the involvement of an influential figure within CSK could ultimately determine the direction of the deal.
Player consent remains one of the most important factors. It is not yet clear whether Hardik Pandya would be willing to join a franchise where he would not be captain. The report adds that two highly respected former international captains have also shown interest in signing him. One of those franchises even offered him the captaincy, but initial discussions failed to progress towards anything substantial. However, a new round of talks cannot be ruled out, especially if negotiations in the southern franchises continue to gain momentum.
Pandya may not be the only notable Indian cricketer on the move this season. According to ToI, Mumbai Indians will have to finalize the transfer of the all-rounder before deciding the future of one of their teammates. The franchises involved are expected to take this into account in their discussions on Pandya’s move. While the two situations may not be directly related, the report says they could still influence Mumbai Indians’ overall strategy when weighing two potentially significant transactions.
