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Hardik Pandya to PBKS, Arshdeep to MI: A major development has rocked the cricketing world just ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 auction. Putting an end to long-standing speculation, Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have officially announced a historic direct trade deal.
As part of this deal, star all-rounder and former MI captain Hardik Pandya will now be seen in the red jersey of the Punjab Kings. Meanwhile, India’s star left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has joined the Mumbai Indians.
Hardik Pandya & Arshdeep Singh Trade Price Details
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According to an official statement released by the IPL, this transaction is a cash-plus-player swap deal:
- Hardik Pandya (PBKS): Punjab Kings will pay INR 18.00 crore to bring Pandya into their squad. Pandya’s previous salary was INR 16.35 crore, marking an increase of INR 1.65 crore.
- Arshdeep Singh (MI): Mumbai Indians have acquired Arshdeep at his current price tag of INR 18.00 crore.
Punjab Kings will be the third franchise in Hardik Pandya’s IPL career, following his stints with the Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans.
End of Hardik Pandya’s Second Stint at Mumbai Indians
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With this trade, Hardik Pandya’s second tenure with the Mumbai Indians has come to an end. After returning from the Gujarat Titans in 2024, he was appointed as the team's captain.
Hardik possesses extensive leadership experience and is regarded as one of the finest match-finishers in the T20 format. In 162 IPL matches, he has scored nearly 3,000 runs (2,955 runs) and claimed 82 wickets. However, during his stint as captain in Mumbai, he faced significant criticism from fans, and the team's results also fell short of expectations.
Also Read: IPL 2027 Traded Players List: Mega Swaps & Transfer Fees
How Hardik Pandya Strengthens Punjab Kings Squad
The arrival of Hardik Pandya significantly strengthens the team dynamics for the Punjab Kings. Adding an experienced Indian pace-bowling all-rounder provides:
- Middle-Order Batting: It enhances the ability to score runs quickly in the middle order and finish matches.
- Team Balance: It provides the team with a reliable fourth or fifth pace-bowling option.
- Dressing Room Leadership: Regardless of the designated captaincy role, Pandya’s experience will prove highly valuable for the younger players.
Arshdeep Singh Leaves PBKS After 8 Seasons
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Meanwhile, 27-year-old left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has parted ways with the Punjab Kings following eight stellar seasons. Arshdeep, who made his debut in 2019, departs as the most successful bowler in the history of the Punjab Kings.
- IPL Career Record: 111 wickets in 96 matches.
Jasprit Bumrah & Arshdeep Singh Duo at Wankhede
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With the arrival of Arshdeep Singh, the pace attack of the five-time champions, Mumbai Indians, is set to become the most formidable bowling combination in the IPL.
Arshdeep’s left-arm swing and his precise yorkers in the death overs paired with Jasprit Bumrah will give Mumbai an edge in any situation. Especially at the Wankhede Stadium, with its specific pitch conditions and shorter boundaries, Mumbai will have excellent options to take wickets during both the powerplay and the slog (death) overs.
Also Read: SMAT 2026-27: Sanju Samson Named Kerala Captain, Squad Announced
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