R Ashwin, a former all-rounder for India, commented on the speculation about Hardik Pandya's IPL future with the Mumbai Indians. According to sources, the 32-year-old might be at the center of a major trade debate.

Reports have connected Pandya to possible transfer agreements with the Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders following his three consecutive seasons as captain of MI, in which the franchise failed to make it into the playoffs in two seasons.

Sharing his thoughts on the issues, Ashwin stated that only CSK and KKR will pursue Hardik Pandya, the two franchises who are looking to reset after poor outing in previous two seasons.

Ashwin said that MI may only accept a swap deal with KKR if they acquire the services of pacer Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return.

“Don’t count out Hardik going to a franchise other than CSK or KKR. The talks are that CSK will give Dube and a pacer, while KKR gives away Cameron Green. What happens if Green decides to focus on the Ashes next year? If I were MI, I would accept a deal with KKR on only one condition, which is getting Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return. That is the only way MI gets stronger,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

“MI will also think who between CSK and KKR gets stronger through the Hardik trade. If CSK give away Dube and one Indian pacer to get Hardik, they get strong but not invincible. However, if KKR get Hardik, they suddenly look very strong. KKR will become a lethal batting lineup with Hardik. These are teams with five, five and three titles, so MI have to think how they can ensure one of these teams doesn’t leapfrog them,” he added.

Hardik has been out of action since the IPL 2026, where he made 206 runs and took 4 wickets in 10 games for MI. He suffered back spasms and has been rehabbing and recovering at the CoE in Bengaluru.