Punjab Kings (PBKS) have emerged as the frontrunners to acquire star all-rounder Hardik Pandya from Mumbai Indians (MI) through a trade deal ahead of the November 17 retention deadline for IPL 2027. Several franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), have reportedly shown interest in securing the services of the Indian all-rounder.
According to an IANS report, Punjab Kings are currently ahead of their rivals following verbal discussions between the managements of PBKS and Mumbai Indians. If the negotiations are successful, formal paperwork could begin soon, followed by approval from IPL authorities.
Arshdeep Singh Likely to Move to Mumbai Indians
Under the proposed trade arrangement, Punjab Kings could send left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh and wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Vinod to Mumbai Indians in exchange for Hardik Pandya.
Arshdeep, who is currently part of India’s squad for the five-match ODI series against New Zealand, would provide Mumbai with an experienced Indian left-arm pace option. Vishnu Vinod would strengthen MI’s wicketkeeping resources.
For Punjab Kings, Pandya’s arrival would add considerable strength to their batting and bowling departments. The all-rounder is capable of contributing with both bat and ball and could become an important part of the Shreyas Iyer-led side.
KKR, Rajasthan Royals and LSG Also Interested
Apart from Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants have also explored the possibility of signing Pandya.
KKR reportedly held advanced discussions with Mumbai Indians but were unwilling to release some of their key players as part of the proposed deal.
Rajasthan Royals were also interested in acquiring Pandya, reportedly considering a trade involving Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravi Bishnoi. However, those discussions have not made significant progress.
Lucknow Super Giants also explored the possibility of bringing Pandya into their squad, while Chennai Super Kings reportedly showed initial interest before the discussions stalled.
Mohsin Khan Could Replace Marcus Stoinis
Punjab Kings are also reportedly exploring another trade involving Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis and Lucknow Super Giants’ left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan.
If the proposed arrangement materialises, Mohsin Khan could join Punjab Kings, while Stoinis could move to LSG.
Hardik Pandya’s IPL Journey
Hardik Pandya has enjoyed considerable success in the IPL. He captained Gujarat Titans to the championship in their debut season in 2022 and led the franchise to the final in 2023 before returning to Mumbai Indians through an all-cash trade ahead of IPL 2024.
However, his three seasons as MI captain produced mixed results. Mumbai finished fourth in 2025, at the bottom of the table in 2024 and ninth in 2026.
Pandya’s fitness is also a concern, as he has been dealing with a series of injuries and has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2026, according to the report.
If the proposed Punjab Kings-Mumbai Indians deal does not materialise, Pandya is reportedly open to continuing with Mumbai Indians for another season.
The potential trade has generated considerable interest ahead of IPL 2027, although the final decision will depend on negotiations between the franchises and approval from IPL authorities.
