Only RCB and SRH have stayed out of the race to acquire Hardik Pandya.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are leading the massive trade war to sign Hardik Pandya for the IPL 2027 season.
Following a disastrous IPL 2026 campaign where Mumbai Indians (MI) finished ninth, the star all-rounder mutually agreed to part ways with the franchise due to immense mental exhaustion and a fractured dressing room.
According to a TOI report, seven franchises have expressed interest in acquiring Pandya. Only Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have chosen to remain spectators in this pursuit.
The report claimed that CSK entered the race late but have now set up an exciting contest with KKR, while RR are also in contention.
CSK seem to be a perfect fit for Pandya in the post-MS Dhoni era, though leadership duties are not guaranteed. Meanwhile, KKR are prepared to offer him the captaincy role, and RR, too, are exploring a long-term leader.
However, the trade is heavily dependent on whether MI's management is willing to release their captain, as well as the financial logistics required to execute one of the biggest transfers in IPL history. Communication channels are currently active between MI and franchises like CSK and KKR.
As per the report, CSK are quietly monitoring Hardik Pandya's trade status and is well-positioned to secure his services, much like they did with the blockbuster trade involving Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran last year. However, late hiccups can’t be ruled out as player consent and negotiations between franchises are still required.
Two respected former international captains have reportedly expressed interest in the trade. One has even offered the captaincy, but those early discussions did not lead to a final agreement.
Another high-profile Indian cricketer’s future is tied to the finalisation of Hardik Pandya's trade from the Mumbai Indians. Should both senior players exit, report suggests that MI may pivot toward a youthful rebuilding phase.
(With TOI Inputs)