Mumbai Indians might not trade Hardik Pandya at all

Ravichandran Ashwin said Mumbai Indians should only accept a trade involving Hardik Pandya with Kolkata Knight Riders if they receive Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return. That's the only way MI would strengthen their squad in any deal.

Ashwin warned that KKR would become a lethal batting lineup with Pandya added to their existing strength. He said MI must consider how much stronger CSK or KKR would become through any Hardik trade, given both franchises already have multiple IPL titles. MI can't afford to strengthen a direct rival without significant compensation.

Pandya scored 206 runs and took four wickets in 10 matches as Mumbai Indians finished ninth in IPL 2026. The 32-year-old hasn't played competitive cricket since the season ended, and speculation over his future has grown.