Hyderabad: Hardik Pandya’s potential trade has entered a decisive phase ahead of the IPL transfer deadline. However, Mumbai Indians have ruled out releasing Suryakumar Yadav in any player exchange.
Speculation has linked Pandya with Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh. Rajasthan Royals have also reportedly emerged as a possible trade partner.
Mumbai Indians are understood to prefer a frontline fast bowler in any deal involving Pandya. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have reportedly sought time to consider the proposed exchange.
MI sources ruled out any possibility of trading Suryakumar. “SKY is not up for trade, and there have been no discussions, nor will there be,” sources told the media.
Suryakumar scored 270 runs in 13 matches last season. However, he delivered a strong performance in 2025, scoring 717 runs in 16 matches.
Arshdeep Singh Emerges as Potential Trade Option
Arshdeep Singh could address Mumbai Indians’ need for a frontline fast bowler. Discussions have reportedly taken place over a possible exchange involving Pandya and the India pacer.
Punjab Kings have not confirmed the proposal. However, sources have not ruled out the possibility of a trade.
Pandya’s preference could influence the discussions. A move to Punjab may not guarantee him the captaincy, as Shreyas Iyer leads the franchise.
A possible move to Rajasthan Royals could offer Pandya a leadership opportunity. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravi Bishnoi have reportedly featured in discussions involving the franchise.
However, Mumbai Indians appear more interested in securing a frontline fast bowler. Rajasthan are unlikely to consider releasing Jofra Archer, although MI have not reportedly approached them for the England pacer.
Mumbai’s interest in fast bowling comes after disappointing seasons from Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar. Boult claimed only two wickets in five matches last season.
Chahar picked up eight wickets in eight matches last season. He had taken 11 wickets in 14 matches during the 2025 season.
Mumbai could consider releasing one of the bowlers, particularly Boult. However, the franchise reportedly has around two weeks to make that decision.
The five-time champions have several batting options. Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Sherfane Rutherford, Naman Dhir and Will Jacks strengthen their batting lineup.
Mitchell Santner also offers batting depth. This could explain Mumbai’s limited interest in Chennai Super Kings batter Ayush Mhatre.
Mumbai had earlier held discussions with Kolkata Knight Riders over Harshit Rana and a batter in exchange for Pandya. However, KKR were reportedly unwilling to release the fast bowler.
The next 48 hours could prove crucial in determining Pandya’s future. Punjab Kings are expected to communicate their decision after considering the proposal.
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews and Follow Our Youtube Channel on Google
