New Delhi: Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is once again in the news regarding the IPL. Currently away from cricket and working on his fitness, speculation continues about which team Hardik will play for in the next IPL season.
There is a growing buzz about Hardik being traded to the Mumbai Indians, with several teams being considered. However, no official confirmation of the trade has been made yet. Therefore, the current information is being treated as reports and speculation only.
Did KKR and CSK show interest?
According to the report, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have shown interest in including Hardik in their team.
The names of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are also being discussed. However, there is no confirmation on these teams yet.
Most importantly, the Mumbai Indians have not yet given the green light to trade Hardik. According to reports, some teams have held talks with the Mumbai Indians regarding Hardik, but the matter is still in its early stages.
Hardik in place of Axar Patel? Deal is tough.
Axar Patel’s name has also surfaced in connection with a potential trade for Hardik. There is talk that this trade could be a player swap between the Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals.
However, this deal is not considered easy and no final decision has been taken regarding it yet.
Cameron Green’s name with KKR
KKR also wants to sign Hardik, but according to reports, the team is reluctant to trade any of its top players in exchange. This is making negotiations difficult to proceed.
Cameron Green’s name has been raised as a potential option. If KKR trades him to Mumbai Indians, a trade for Hardik could become a possibility. However, it is still unclear whether Green will play in the IPL.
The picture is not clear in CSK as well.
Chennai Super Kings have not yet made any major decisions regarding Hardik. Team CEO Kasi Viswanath has already stated that the team will first complete the search for a new coach and then discuss future plans.
Therefore, the news of Hardik joining CSK cannot be considered confirmed at the moment.
Mumbai Indians’ approval is most important
The key factor in the Hardik Pandya trade will be the Mumbai Indians’ consent. Until both Mumbai and Hardik’s team agree to a trade, any potential deal cannot be considered final.
That means, names of many teams are definitely in discussion, but there has been no official confirmation of Hardik Pandya leaving Mumbai Indians.
Hardik is working on his fitness
Hardik is currently working on his fitness at the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. Reports suggest he is now reasonably fit and could return to the Indian team for the next series.
All eyes are now on his fitness, return to the Indian team and his potential trade ahead of IPL 2027.