Ravichandran Ashwin says Rajasthan Royals top the list for Hardik Pandya trade
Ashwin said Rajasthan Royals lead the race for Hardik Pandya while ruling out a move to Chennai Super Kings despite Dhoni speculation.
Ravichandran Ashwin said Rajasthan Royals are the frontrunners to secure Hardik Pandya if a trade takes place ahead of IPL 2027. He added that a move to Chennai Super Kings remains unlikely despite speculation linking MS Dhoni with the deal.
Ashwin said Pandya would be a strong addition for CSK but called the prospect a long shot. Mumbai Indians finished ninth in IPL 2026 and are searching for a new head coach after Mahela Jayawardene's departure.
Pandya returned to Mumbai Indians in the biggest IPL trade three years ago. The November 15 retention deadline is less than a month away.
CricHubb Take
If Rajasthan Royals land Pandya, they gain a proven finisher and death bowler just as their young core enters its prime, shifting the franchise balance away from Mumbai and Chennai.