Hardik Pandya to CSK? Super Kings Promo Video will spark curiosity. R Ashwin answers

Chennai Super Kings have reignited speculation about a possible move for Hardik Pandya ahead of IPL 2027 after their latest social media video featuring mascot Lee appeared to offer fans a cryptic clue. A poster bearing the number 33, Hardik’s jersey number, caught the attention of supporters and added fresh fuel to rumors linking the Mumbai Indians captain with the five-time champions.

The figure has sparked speculation that CSK could be hinting at a blockbuster deal, though the franchise has not confirmed any deal involving the Indian all-rounder. The video could also be a deliberate attempt to play into the transfer chatter that has surrounded Hardik since the disappointing 2026 Mumbai campaign.

Former off-spinner R Ashwin had an interesting reaction to the CSK video. Screengrab by X

Hardik’s future has been in the news since the end of the previous season, when Mumbai finished ninth in the 10-team table after winning just four of 14 league matches. It was the second time in three seasons under Hardik that the franchise failed to qualify for the playoffs.

According to reports, CSK, Kolkata Knight Riders and other franchises have been linked with a potential move for the all-rounder. Speculation is rife with the retention day, which is scheduled for November 15th.

However, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan had earlier dismissed speculation of a deal, saying the franchise had not been discussed and would consider its options only after completing the season review. The Mumbai Indians also said they did not engage in trade talks between players while their postseason evaluation was underway.

Hardik’s second stint in Mumbai was a mixed bag. After starting his IPL career with the franchise in 2015, he spent seven seasons with MI before moving to Gujarat Titans in 2022. He led Gujarat to the title in their debut season and led them to the final again in 2023, establishing himself as one of the league’s most successful leaders in a short period of time.

Mumbai brought Hardik back ahead of the 2024 season in a high-profile swap that saw the all-rounder replace Rohit Sharma as captain. The change proved controversial among fans and Hardik was booed at several places during his first season. Mumbai endured a difficult campaign and finished bottom of the table with four wins from 14 matches.

The team improved in 2025, making the playoffs and finishing third, but failed to maintain that run in 2026. Hardik’s own campaign has also been marred by injury, while his performances with bat and ball have fallen short of expectations. Mumbai’s ninth-place finish has since intensified questions about the team’s leadership and long-term plans.

For CSK, Hardik would offer a proven all-rounder capable of contributing with both bat and ball as well as extensive captaincy experience. His history of success with Gujarat Titans makes him an attractive prospect for any franchise looking to strengthen their leadership group.

CSK have also revamped their support staff under new head coach Zaheer Khan ahead of IPL 2027, appointing former India pacer Mohit Sharma as bowling coach and former South Africa all-rounder Albie Morkel and former England spinner Gareth Batty as assistant coach.

Assistant coach Sridharan Sriram and fielding coach James Foster will continue, while CSK have parted ways with batting coach Michael Hussey, bowling coach Eric Simons and other members of the previous support staff as they look to rebuild after three consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance.

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