CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: New Delhi. Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027, discussions over the future of Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya have intensified. Amid speculation that Mumbai Indians captain Hardik could move to another franchise, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has described Rajasthan Royals as being ahead in the race for a possible trade. However, no franchise has made any official announcement in this regard so far.
Ashwin said the possibility of Hardik moving to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) appears low at present. Discussing Hardik’s possible trade on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said a move to CSK currently looks difficult. Earlier, there had been speculation that Mahendra Singh Dhoni could try to bring Hardik into the Chennai side. According to Ashwin, that possibility seems quite distant. He said that, as per his information, if Hardik is traded, Rajasthan Royals could be ahead in the race. This is Ashwin’s assessment and not confirmation of any agreed deal.
Apart from Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are also being discussed in connection with Hardik’s possible trade. Amid speculation over KKR’s need for a new captain, Hardik’s experience and all-round ability are being seen as a possible option. Hardik scored 206 runs and took four wickets in 10 matches for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026. The team’s performance was also disappointing, as it registered only four wins in 14 league matches.
Teams have to submit their retention lists for IPL 2027 by November 15, 2026. A mini-auction is proposed for December after that. In the coming weeks, the picture could become clearer on decisions related to player retention and trades. At present, there is no official confirmation of Hardik Pandya leaving Mumbai Indians or joining Rajasthan Royals. Therefore, this news should be viewed only as discussion around a possible trade.
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