Hardik Pandya’s future with Mumbai Indians has come under fresh scrutiny after reports claimed that several IPL franchises are exploring the possibility of signing the India all-rounder. With the trade window expected to generate significant activity, Pandya has reportedly emerged as one of the most sought-after players ahead of the 2027 season.
CSK lead race for Pandya
According to TOI, as many as seven IPL franchises have shown interest in acquiring Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya. Chennai Super Kings are believed to be the front-runners, while Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals have also emerged as strong contenders in the race for the star all-rounder.
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Pandya began his IPL career with Mumbai Indians in 2015 before moving to Gujarat Titans as captain in 2022. He led the franchise to the IPL title in its debut season and followed it up with another appearance in the final before making a high-profile return to Mumbai Indians as captain.
Hardik Pandya trade:
* CSK enter race; to challenge KKR & RR
* 7 franchises have expressed interest to get HP
* 2 prominent former captains have reached out
* MI could close HP before addressing his teammate
* Chatter in South, North could re-enterhttps://t.co/v4OxNfdueX— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) July 1, 2026
The report further states that Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad are the only two franchises not pursuing the Indian international, with the remaining teams reportedly interested in a potential trade.
Mumbai future remains uncertain
Pandya’s second stint with Mumbai Indians has produced mixed results. The five-time champions finished at the bottom of the table in one season under his leadership, reached the playoffs in another, and ended the most recent campaign in ninth place, leading to speculation over his long-term future with the franchise.
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Despite the widespread reports, neither Mumbai Indians nor Pandya has made any official statement regarding a possible move. Any transfer would require mutual agreement between the franchises and must comply with the IPL’s player trade regulations.
🚨 HARDIK SHIFTS TO BENGALURU. 🚨
– Hardik Pandya permanently shifts to Bengaluru and rents a property close to the CoE.
He’ll be the first Indian to make the CoE his permanent training base.
✍️ His goal is 2027 World Cup, 2028 Olympics and wishes to play for 5-6 years more.… pic.twitter.com/0md8WiMGv5— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 30, 2026
If a deal eventually goes through, it would rank among the biggest player moves in IPL history. For now, Pandya remains a Mumbai Indians player, but with multiple franchises reportedly monitoring the situation, his future is expected to remain one of the biggest talking points ahead of the next IPL season.
