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MI set to retain Suryakumar Yadav as Hardik Pandya trade picks up pace

Mumbai Indians have confirmed their intention to retain Suryakumar Yadav for the upcoming season, dismissing any trade speculation surrounding the explosive batter. Yadav’s standout 2025 IPL campaign—where he amassed 717 runs in 16 matches—solidified his status as a cornerstone of MI’s lineup, leaving the franchise with no appetite for parting ways.

Meanwhile, the club is nearing a final decision on Hardik Pandya’s future, with Punjab Kings emerging as the leading suitors in talks that could conclude within the next 48 hours. Pandya, who has led MI across three seasons (2024–2026), struggled with the bat in 2024, managing just 270 runs in 13 games, raising questions about his continued role in the side.

Discussions with Punjab have reportedly centered on a potential swap involving left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, a key member of India’s T20I attack. Earlier exploratory talks with Kolkata Knight Riders stalled over a lack of alignment on player exchanges, while Rajasthan Royals remain a distant possibility, though no formal negotiations have been confirmed.

MI’s core batting lineup—featuring Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, and others—remains intact, but their bowling depth faces scrutiny after Trent Boult’s underwhelming 2026 season (5 matches, 2 wickets), contrasting with Deepak Chahar’s improved form (19 wickets across 2025–2026).

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