New Delhi .The big trade between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings before IPL (Indian Premier League) 2027 has started a new discussion in the cricket world. Both the franchises have exchanged their key players. Former Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya will now be seen playing for Punjab Kings, while Punjab fast bowler Arshdeep Singh will wear the Mumbai Indians jersey in the upcoming season. In this trade, the fees of both the players have been fixed at Rs 18-18 crore.
The last date to retain players for IPL 2027 is set for November 17. This big change that happened earlier has intensified the discussion about the upcoming strategy of both the teams. After Hardik's separation from Mumbai, team owner Akash Ambani has given his reaction. He recalled the years he spent with Hardik and his contribution to the team. Also expressed happiness over Arshdeep joining Mumbai Indians.
Hardik Pandya has been a part of Mumbai Indians for a long time. He started the important phase of his IPL career with this franchise in the year 2015. His performance and all-round ability made him one of the key players in the team. Hardik won the IPL title four times with Mumbai Indians in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. Later he was also given the responsibility of captaining the team.
On Hardik's farewell, Akash Ambani said that he has shared many memorable moments with Mumbai Indians. The franchise saw him grow from a young cricketer to a player who has made his mark in international cricket. After this he also took over the captaincy of the team. According to Akash, Hardik's contribution on the field, his energy and fighting spirit in difficult situations have been very important for the team.
He also said that he has a lot of respect for Hardik as a player and person. Akash wished him all the best for his upcoming career. In this way, he reacted positively to Hardik's separation from Mumbai Indians and gave importance to his past contribution.
However, Hardik's captaincy tenure at Mumbai Indians was full of ups and downs in terms of wins. Under his captaincy, the team played a total of 39 matches, out of which it won 15 matches, while facing defeat in 24 matches. Despite this, his past performances with the franchise and his role in four title campaigns were especially remembered by Akash Ambani.
On the other hand, Akash Ambani also expressed enthusiasm about Arshdeep Singh coming to Mumbai Indians. Arshdeep was associated with Punjab Kings for the last eight IPL seasons. During this period he took 111 wickets in 96 matches. He has been the highest wicket taker in the history of Punjab Kings. His bowling ability to take wickets with the new ball and bring success to the team under pressure made him an important player of the franchise.
Welcoming Arshdeep, Akash Ambani said that his arrival in the team will strengthen the bowling of Mumbai Indians. He said that the franchise always tries to build a team which has a balance of experience, talent and hunger to win. According to him, all these qualities are present in Arshdeep. He heartily welcomed the Indian fast bowler to Mumbai Indians.
After this trade, the role of both the players in IPL 2027 will be under watch. Hardik will showcase his all-round ability for Punjab Kings, while Arshdeep will be responsible for strengthening Mumbai's bowling unit.