Hardik Pandya’s Mumbai Indians future is again becoming one of the biggest talking points ahead of the IPL 2027 auction, with the possibility of a blockbuster trade refusing to go away. What began as speculation involving Chennai Super Kings and has now widened, with reports suggesting that as many as five franchises are keeping tabs on the India all-rounder.

According to a report in a section of the media, Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants, Rajasthan Royals, CSK and KKR are all monitoring Hardik’s situation. The interest is significant enough for some franchises to reportedly consider giving up established players to bring the India star into their ranks.

Hardik’s value in the trade market remains high, despite Mumbai Indians’ recent struggles. The all-rounder offers the rare combination of batting power, seam bowling and leadership experience, making him an attractive proposition for franchises looking to reshape their squads ahead of the 2027 season.

For Mumbai Indians, however, any decision to part ways with Hardik would also mean filling a major hole in their squad. The franchise would therefore be expected to seek a player or combination of players capable of immediately strengthening its team.

Delhi Capitals could reportedly explore a deal involving Axar Patel. The franchise may consider sending the experienced all-rounder to Mumbai Indians in exchange for Hardik.

Axar could be an attractive option for MI because the franchise has lacked consistency in its spin department in recent seasons. His experience and leadership ability could also strengthen Mumbai’s squad.

Lucknow Super Giants already have several high-quality all-rounders, including Mitchell Marsh, although Marsh’s bowling contribution in the IPL has been limited.

One possible scenario could involve Nicholas Pooran moving to Mumbai Indians as part of a trade for Hardik. Such a deal would give MI another explosive batter while allowing LSG to bring in an experienced Indian all-rounder.

For CSK, the immediate priority is reportedly finding a replacement for former head coach Stephen Fleming. CEO Kasi Viswanathan has indicated that the coaching vacancy needs to be addressed first.

Once that issue is resolved, CSK could look at strengthening the squad, including a potential move for Hardik. Reports have even suggested that the franchise may need to part ways with multiple players, with Shivam Dube, Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis among the names discussed.

KKR were among the teams previously linked with Hardik. One possible complication is Cameron Green, who was acquired by the franchise for ₹25.2 crore.

Although releasing Green could create room for a major move, his potential absence due to the Ashes immediately following IPL 2027 could make the situation more complicated for both KKR and Mumbai.

Rajasthan Royals also have plenty of all-round options, including Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Donovan Ferreira and Dasun Shanaka.

However, a reported possibility is that RR could consider using Yashasvi Jaiswal as part of a blockbuster trade package for Hardik. Such a move would represent one of the biggest potential trades in IPL history.

BY JOE WILLIAMS