Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and India cricketer S. Badrinath has advised the Mumbai Indians to look for a trade and try to give Hardik Pandya to Chennai Super Kings in lieu of Shivam Dube and Ayush Mhatre. This comes after reports have stated that the Baroda all-rounder will likely be sacked as MI captain after two below-par seasons.
Hardik Pandya had taken over as MI captain in IPL 2024, and since then, the franchise has only made it into the playoffs in IPL 2025 and now finished 9th in the IPL 2026 points table. MI struggled to establish a rhythm early in the season, and the club frequently faltered when it counted most. Senior players were also unable to step up in high-pressure situations.
The direction of the team and Hardik's long-term position in the franchise's leadership structure are currently being questioned, casting doubt on Hardik's leadership as well.
Badrinath has suggested a bold trade involving Hardik Pandya and Chennai Super Kings. The former Indian cricketer suggested a direct trade that would send Hardik to CSK in exchange for youthful talent Ayush Mhatre and Shivam Dube, portraying it as a move that could significantly alter both teams.
"If I am MI, I would trade Hardik for Shivam Dube and Ayush Mhatre from CSK. A core trio of Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Hardik Pandya will take the CSK brand to a different level. There is also no set rule that Samson has to be made the CSK captain. If Hardik demands captaincy, I would make him CSK's captain because of his excellent relationship with MS Dhoni," Badrinath said on his YouTube channel.
A report in the Indian Express claims that MI has already made the decision to cut ties with Hardik because the team's performance has improved since he assumed captaincy.
By strongly endorsing Hardik's potential effect at CSK, Badrinath has contributed to the discussion around Hardik's long-term future and worth in franchise cricket.
"Hardik has at least three excellent seasons in him. He will lend CSK incredible balance to the point where they can build the team around him. It'll also help Hardik if he goes to CSK over any other franchise, as CSK can enhance your image to a different level," he added.
