Ravichandran Ashwin says Rajasthan Royals top list for Hardik Pandya trade
Ravichandran Ashwin said Rajasthan Royals are the most likely destination for Hardik Pandya if a trade goes through ahead of IPL 2027.
Ravichandran Ashwin said Rajasthan Royals are the frontrunners to sign Hardik Pandya if a trade materialises ahead of IPL 2027. Ashwin dismissed speculation linking Pandya with Chennai Super Kings despite reports suggesting MS Dhoni might try to persuade the all-rounder.
Pandya has struggled for form and results since returning to Mumbai Indians in 2024, with the franchise finishing ninth in IPL 2026. Mumbai Indians must appoint a new head coach before the November 15 retention deadline after Mahela Jayawardene's departure.
Ashwin called any move to CSK a long shot. Pandya led Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in 2022 before returning to Mumbai.
CricHubb Take
Ashwin's assessment suggests Hardik's market value has dropped enough that only a rebuilding franchise would take the risk of acquiring him.