Mumbai or Punjab, Hardik Pandya is unlikely to get the captaincy in IPL 2027

Hardik Pandya could be headed for another franchise change ahead of IPL 2027, but an exit from Mumbai Indians is unlikely to bring him back into a leadership role. Punjab Kings are in advanced talks with the five-time champions for a potential trade involving Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh, which could see Hardik move to PBKS as a player.

According to a PTI report on Tuesday, discussions between the two franchises are on, though the deal is yet to be finalised. An IPL source said that both Mumbai and Punjab are interested in making the deal happen.

“Talks are on. Both sides (MI and PBKS) want it to happen. Still, it’s not a done deal,” a source told PTI.

Hardik’s future in Mumbai was uncertain after a disappointing three-season stint as captain. He returned to the franchise in 2024, replacing Rohit Sharma as captain, a decision that attracted considerable scrutiny from the start. Mumbai finished ninth in his first season, winning just four of 14 games and missing out on the play-offs twice in the three seasons since his appointment.

Rohit is now expected to regain the captaincy for the 2027 season. A previous report by *The Indian Express* suggested that Hardik is willing to continue with Mumbai even if Rohit returns to a leadership role, rather than push for an exit. However, the proposed trade with Punjab added another dimension to the uncertainty surrounding its future.

A move to Punjab, meanwhile, would not necessarily offer Hardik a new leadership opportunity. Shreyas Iyer is expected to continue as captain after leading PBKS to their first IPL final since 2014 in 2025. The franchise enjoyed a strong first half in the 2026 season but faltered towards the business end and missed out on a play-off spot.

“With Iyer as captain, Hardik will come only as a player and that has been clearly communicated,” an IPL source told PTI.

Punjab’s interest in Hardik is understood to be fueled by his all-round ability, especially as the franchise looks to strengthen its bowling resources. However, Arshdeep would be a significant departure. The left-arm pacer has been closely linked with Punjab and is currently India’s leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals.

Hardik has also faced many setbacks due to injuries and has not played since the end of the last IPL season. His availability and fitness will therefore remain important factors for any potential trade.

With the BCCI extending the deadline to retain players till November 17, both the franchises have some time to fine tune the details. The IPL 2027 mini auction is scheduled to be held in Goa on December 16.

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