Mumbai or Punjab, Hardik Pandya unlikely to get captaincy in IPL 2027
Shubman Gill sets a timeline for Hardik Pandya's return. (PTI Photo) Hardik Pandya could be headed for another change of franchise ahead of IPL 2027, but a move away from Mumbai Indians is unlikely to bring him back to a leadership role.
Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings are discussing a potential Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade. Hardik is unlikely to captain either franchise in IPL 2027.
Shubman Gill sets a timeline for Hardik Pandya's return. (PTI Photo)
Hardik Pandya could be headed for another change of franchise ahead of IPL 2027, but a move away from Mumbai Indians is unlikely to bring him back to a leadership role. Punjab Kings are in advanced talks with the five-time champions for a potential trade involving India pacer Arshdeep Singh, which could see Hardik move to PBKS as a player.
According to a PTI report on Tuesday, discussions between the two franchises are progressing, although the deal is yet to be finalised. An IPL source indicated that both Mumbai and Punjab were keen to make the trade happen.
"Talks are going on. Both parties (MI and PBKS) are keen to make it happen. Having said that, it is not a done deal yet," the source told PTI.
Hardik's future at Mumbai has been uncertain following a disappointing three-season stint as captain. He returned to the franchise in 2024 and replaced Rohit Sharma as skipper, a decision that attracted considerable scrutiny from the outset. Mumbai finished ninth in his first season, winning just four of their 14 matches, and have failed to reach the play-offs twice in the three seasons since his appointment.
Rohit is now expected to reclaim the captaincy for the 2027 season. A previous report by The Indian Express had suggested that Hardik was willing to continue at Mumbai even if Rohit returned to the leadership role, rather than push for an exit. However, the proposed trade with Punjab has added another dimension to the uncertainty surrounding his future.
A move to Punjab, meanwhile, would not necessarily offer Hardik a fresh leadership opportunity. Shreyas Iyer is expected to continue as captain after guiding PBKS to their first IPL final since 2014 in 2025. The franchise enjoyed a strong first half in the 2026 season but faltered towards the business end and missed out on a play-off spot.
"With Iyer as captain, Hardik will come in only as a player and that has been conveyed clearly," the IPL source told PTI.
Punjab's interest in Hardik is understood to be driven by his all-round abilities, particularly as the franchise looks to strengthen its bowling resources. Arshdeep, however, would be a significant departure. The left-arm pacer has been closely associated with Punjab and is currently India's leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals.
Hardik has also been dealing with multiple injury setbacks and has not played since the end of the last IPL season. His availability and fitness will therefore remain important considerations for any potential trade.
With the BCCI extending the player retention deadline to November 17, the two franchises have some time to work out the details. The IPL 2027 mini-auction is scheduled to take place in Goa on December 16.
