The IPL has witnessed a major shake-up ahead of the 2027 season, with two prominent Indian players set to represent new franchises. Mumbai Indians have traded their captain Hardik Pandya to Punjab Kings in exchange for left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, bringing an end to two significant player associations in the tournament.
The Indian Premier League officially confirmed the trade on Wednesday. The move is among the biggest player exchanges in the IPL history, as both franchises part ways with players who have played important roles in their respective teams.
Hardik Pandya, who first made his name through Mumbai Indians’ scouting system, was released by the franchise in 2022. He later joined Gujarat Titans and enjoyed two successful seasons, including winning the IPL title in the team’s debut season. He returned to Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024.
However, his second stint with MI did not produce the expected results. Under his leadership, Mumbai Indians won 24 of their 39 matches. The team’s league standings also changed considerably during his tenure. MI finished 10th in his first season, improved to fourth place in 2025, but dropped to ninth in 2026.
Following the trade, Mumbai Indians thanked Hardik Pandya for his contribution to the franchise and wished him success in the next chapter of his career. With Hardik moving to Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians will now have two of India’s leading T20 fast bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, spearheading their bowling attack.
Arshdeep Singh, meanwhile, will join Mumbai Indians after spending eight seasons with Punjab Kings. He made his IPL debut for the franchise in 2019 and gradually established himself as one of the leading left-arm fast bowlers in the competition. The Indian pacer has taken 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches, making him Punjab Kings’ highest wicket-taker in the tournament’s history.
His ability to pick up wickets with the new ball and control the opposition’s scoring during the death overs has made him an important part of Punjab’s bowling attack. Arshdeep Singh enjoyed a productive IPL 2025 season, taking 21 wickets, and followed it up with another 14 wickets in the 2026 edition. His left-arm pace and ability to bowl effectively at different stages of an innings are expected to strengthen Mumbai Indians’ bowling options.
The financial details of the trade have also been revealed. Arshdeep, who was among Punjab Kings’ highest paid players, will continue to receive an annual salary of Rs 18 crore at Mumbai Indians. Hardik Pandya, on the other hand, will receive a salary increase following his move to Punjab Kings. His earnings have increased from Rs 16.35 crore to Rs 18 crore.
The blockbuster exchange brings a fresh beginning for both players, with Mumbai Indians adding another leading Indian fast bowler to their attack, while Punjab Kings welcome an experienced all-rounder ahead of the IPL 2027.
What do you think of this development?
Kane Williamson Reveals He Had A Chat With Virat Kohli Before Retiring, Says He Felt Like….
Brendan Taylor Scripts History, Becomes World’s 2nd Oldest Cricketer To Win The….
IPL 2027- Young Cricketer To Leave DC? GT Could Make A Move Before IPL 2027 Auction
Indian U-19 Skipper Holds Batters Responsible For 3-Wicket Defeat Vs Pak, Says India Needed….
