'Harshit Rana to MI and Pandya to KKR'; Big transfer news ahead of 2027 IPL season

MUMBAI: Hardik Pandya, captain of Mumbai Indians, might not feature for the team in the upcoming IPL edition. Former Indian player Ravichandran Ashwin opined that five teams—Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat Titans, and Punjab Kings—are interested in acquiring Pandya.

Earlier, there were rumours regarding Hardik planning a possible return to Gujarat Titans, but the plan fell through purportedly following differences in the captaincy role. However, Ashwin clarified that Hardik no longer insists on being the captain of the team he joins next. At the same time, Ashwin said Kolkata Knight Riders would be the most suitable team for Hardik, adding that he might even be offered the captaincy.

Ashwin analysed that if acquired Pandya, Kolkata would give Harshit Rana or Rinku Singh to Mumbai Indians in exchange. He also noted that Hardik, who is pondering a move from Mumbai Indians, would likely want to join the team that best suits him.