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Hardik Pandya set for shock Mumbai Indians exit, Punjab Kings closes in on trade

Mumbai Indians all-rounder Hardik Pandya is on the brink of a high-profile transfer to Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL 2027 season, according to reports. The move would mark a dramatic shift for Pandya, who rejoined Mumbai in 2024 after an all-cash trade from Gujarat Titans, where he had led the team to a title in 2022.

His tenure as Mumbai’s captain, however, saw mixed results, with the franchise finishing near the bottom of the standings in two of his three seasons. Punjab’s interest stems from their need for a match-winning all-rounder, with negotiations reportedly advanced enough that only formal documentation remains before an official announcement, expected before the November 17 retention deadline.

In exchange, Mumbai are likely to receive India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh and wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Vinod, both key players for Punjab. The deal would also impact Punjab’s squad dynamics, as Hardik’s arrival could reduce the role of Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, while left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan may be involved in a separate trade with Lucknow Super Giants.

Punjab had previously secured Arshdeep’s return using their Right to Match card after he was released in the 2025 mega auction, following a bidding war with Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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