Hardik Pandya could be at the centre of one of the biggest player movements in IPL history, with multiple reports claiming that as many as seven franchises have expressed interest in signing the Mumbai Indians captain ahead of the 2027 season.
According to a ,Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have emerged as the leading contenders if Mumbai Indians decide to part ways with the India all-rounder.
However, while talks are reportedly underway, no trade has been agreed and Pandya remains a Mumbai Indians player.
Why has Hardik Pandya been linked with a Mumbai Indians exit?
The speculation follows Mumbai Indians’ disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, where the five-time champions finished ninth.
The report claims Pandya and Mumbai Indians have mutually discussed the possibility of moving on following a difficult season marked by poor results, mental exhaustion and reports of a fractured dressing room.
Neither Mumbai Indians nor Hardik Pandya has publicly commented on those claims.
Which IPL teams are interested in Hardik Pandya?
According to the report, seven franchises have made enquiries about Pandya’s availability.
Among them, three teams have emerged as the frontrunners.
Chennai Super Kings
CSK are reportedly monitoring the situation closely despite entering the race later than some rivals.
The franchise is believed to view Pandya as a marquee addition in the post-MS Dhoni era, although there is no indication that captaincy would automatically accompany the move.
The report also claims CSK successfully executed a complex multi-player trade involving Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran last season, giving them confidence in handling another blockbuster negotiation.
Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR are reportedly willing to go one step further.
According to the report, the defending IPL champions are prepared to offer Pandya the captaincy if he joins the franchise, making them one of the strongest contenders for his signature.
Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals are also said to be exploring the possibility of bringing Pandya in as part of their long-term leadership plans.
What needs to happen before any trade?
Despite widespread speculation, several hurdles remain before any move can materialise.
Any trade would require:
- Mumbai Indians agreeing to release Pandya.
- Hardik Pandya giving his consent.
- The buying franchise agreeing to financial terms and player compensation.
- The IPL trade window regulations being satisfied.
The report states that communication channels remain active between Mumbai Indians and interested franchises, particularly CSK and KKR.
RCB and SRH reportedly not interested
Among the ten IPL teams, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are reportedly the only franchises that have not entered the race for Pandya.
Another Indian star’s future reportedly linked
The report further suggests another high-profile Indian cricketer’s future could depend on whether Pandya leaves Mumbai Indians.
If both senior players depart, Mumbai could reportedly opt for a younger rebuilding project ahead of IPL 2027.
However, the identity of the second player has not been revealed.
While the reports point towards a potentially historic IPL trade, there has been no official confirmation from Mumbai Indians, Hardik Pandya or any of the franchises linked with him.
As things stand:
- Hardik Pandya remains a Mumbai Indians player.
- CSK, KKR and RR have been linked through media reports.
- No trade agreement has been announced.
- Negotiations, if ongoing, remain private.
If completed, Pandya’s move would rank among the biggest trades in IPL history, but for now, the speculation remains exactly that-speculation.