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Hardik Pandya’s IPL 2027 future sparks fresh speculation as Ravichandran Ashwin identifies possible destinations. (Img: X)
Mumbai: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has identified Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) among the possible destinations for Mumbai Indians all-rounder Hardik Pandya, amid speculation over his future ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
Ashwin believes KKR could be an attractive option for Pandya, as the franchise may offer him an opportunity to lead the side. He also outlined potential player exchanges that Mumbai Indians could consider if they decide to part ways with their captain.
Pandya's future has become a talking point following Mumbai's disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, in which the five-time champions finished ninth in the 10-team standings. The all-rounder managed 206 runs and four wickets in 10 appearances during the season.
Discussing the prospects of a deal involving KKR, Ashwin suggested that Mumbai could explore options involving spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, fast bowler Harshit Rana or batter Rinku Singh. However, he indicated that moving Chakaravarthy could prove difficult.
Rajasthan Royals could also emerge as a contender, with Ashwin discussing possible combinations involving Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sam Curran, Brijesh Sharma, Tushar Deshpande and Ravi Bishnoi. The former India international also pointed to Mumbai's squad requirements, arguing that the franchise needs an Indian wicketkeeper and improvements in its bowling resources.
Punjab Kings could enter the discussions with Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai as a possible trade option, while Gujarat Titans might explore a deal involving leg-spinner Rashid Khan. Ashwin's assessment places Chennai Super Kings, KKR, RR, GT and PBKS among the principal franchises that could be involved in negotiations. He, however, dismissed Lucknow Super Giants as a likely destination despite reports suggesting that several teams were interested in Pandya.
Ashwin also indicated that the captaincy question might not be the decisive factor in Pandya's next IPL move. Instead, the all-rounder could prioritise finding a franchise that offers the right cricketing environment as speculation over his departure from Mumbai continues.
KKR's potential to offer him a leadership role could nevertheless make the franchise an appealing choice. There has been no official confirmation of a trade involving Pandya from Mumbai Indians or the player. Any proposed move would depend on negotiations between the franchises and the final terms of a possible exchange.
