IPL trade buzz: KKR, Rajasthan open talks with MI over potential Hardik Pandya move

Hardik Pandya is on his way from Mumbai Indians and the five-time IPL champions have at least two feelers for a potential deal – one from Shah Rukh Khan co-owned Kolkata Knight Riders and the other from Rajasthan Royals.

There have been several discussions between the KKR top management and Mumbai Indians owners regarding the swap, an IPL insider privy to the development told PTI on condition of anonymity.

Pandya’s second coming to Mumbai Indians was a tumultuous onees with the only entry into the playoffs under his leadership.

“Ajinkya Rahane was always a temporary deal for KKR and was always going to be released after this season. KKR top brass approached the MI owners at the end of last season, but with Reliance’s annual general meeting around the corner, the IPL business was not the top priority at the time.

“However, it is learned that KKR has again approached the MI top management and several rounds of discussions have taken place,” the source informed.

It goes without saying that if Pandya goes to KKR either for an all-cash deal or a trade-off, the captain’s chair is up for grabs as Rinku Singh doesn’t look like a viable option at the moment.

However, the source could not confirm when asked if MI wanted a cash deal for the star Indian all-rounder or a compromise.

The IPL transfer rule clearly states that a player cannot hold individual discussions with any other franchise regarding a trade.

The rule says only franchise-to-franchise discussion can occur, but also states that no trade can occur without the player’s consent. If the player does not agree, he must be released back into the auction pool.

RAJASTHAN EYE EXCHANGE OFFER?

The second offer that came MI’s way is learned to be a compromise between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pandya, but it cannot be said with much certainty whether the talks have progressed to an advanced stage.

With Royals eyeing Assam star Riyan Parag as the long-term captain, it will be tough for Pandya to get a leadership role.

If Pandya’s move sees the light of day, KKR looks a far more viable option compared to Rajasthan Royals at this point.

– The end

Issued by:

Akshay Ramesh

Published on:

23 Jun 2026 19:03 IST