Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh trade between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings nearly final

Big changes are being made in every team ahead of IPL 2027. Franchises have also begun preparing for the mini auction. The list of players the franchises have retained and released will be made public on November 17. Ahead of that, trades involving players are being discussed across all teams.

The deal between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings is the most talked about at present. There is a strong possibility of a trade between Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh. Pandya may now play for Punjab Kings, while Arshdeep Singh may be seen with Mumbai Indians.

The agreement between the two teams is said to be almost certain. The franchises have finalised it and sent a letter to the BCCI. Talks with the players over money are still pending. The agreement will then be signed and an announcement may follow. There is talk on social media that an official announcement could come within 72 hours. For now, both teams are considering only one player each in the deal.

With Hardik Pandya's arrival, Punjab Kings will get an Indian fast-bowling all-rounder. However, Pandya will play in the team only as a player. Shreyas Iyer is likely to retain the captaincy of Punjab Kings. Iyer is also currently captain of the Indian team in the T20 format.

As for Mumbai Indians, bowling was the team's biggest weakness in IPL 2026. The team's main fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, was not getting support from the other bowlers. With Arshdeep Singh joining, Mumbai's bowling could become stronger. After that, there would also be no need to field Trent Boult in the playing XI. The team management could then use Will Jacks as an all-rounder. Mumbai will keep Corbin Bosch as their fast-bowling all-rounder.

After this trade, Mumbai Indians will have to find a new captain. Former captain Rohit Sharma currently appears to be the frontrunner. Tilak Varma could also be made the team's new vice-captain. The Mumbai side is currently preparing with the future in mind.