Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are leading the race to sign star Indian all-rounder from Mumbai Indians (MI).
Hardik has decided to part ways with the five-time champions following a disastrous IPL 2026 campaign, in which MI finished ninth on the points table after winning just 4 games out of 14.
According to a Times of India (TOI) report, seven IPL franchises have shown interest in acquiring Hardik’s services for the next edition of the league. Only Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have chosen not to enter the race.
CSK’s captaincy not guaranteed for Hardik
The Super Kings joined the race late but have now triggered an exciting trade war along with KKR and RR. Hardik is a perfect fit for Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK, but there is no guarantee of captaincy for the all-rounder. They finished in eighth position in the standings after winning just 6 matches.
Meanwhile, KKR and RR are looking for a captain and are ready to offer a long-term role. According to the TOI report, the communication channels are currently active between CSK, MI and KKR. Although the three franchises have not confirmed anything yet, several options are being explored.
The CSK management remained patient observers as the rumours around Hardik’s trade grew stronger. The five-time champions are in a very strong position to sign Hardik from MI, and a role of an influential figure in the CSK setup might hold the key to the mega trade.
Hardik’s consent is also a crucial aspect for the trade, and it will be interesting to see whether the all-rounder is keen to move to a franchise without the captaincy armband. Two respected former international captains have also expressed interest, with one offering captaincy, but those early talks did not lead to any agreement.
According to the same report, the fresh round of conversations cannot be ruled out in the North. Another high-profile Indian cricketer’s future is also tied to the finalisation of Hardik’s trade from MI. If both senior players leave, reports suggest that the five-time champions may move toward young players to rebuild.