Speculation surrounding the future of Hardik Pandya with the Mumbai Indians (MI) has gathered significant momentum ahead of IPL 2027. Reports have suggested that the five-time champions could consider trading their captain after a mixed three-year spell, prompting discussions over which franchises could emerge as realistic destinations. Amid the growing rumours, former India opener Aakash Chopra shared his views on the possible trade scenarios, outlining the ideal swap deals that could benefit both Mumbai and the interested teams.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra claimed that almost every IPL franchise, except Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), would be interested in signing Hardik if he becomes available. He then analysed each potential trade and identified the combinations he believes would make the most sense from Mumbai Indians’ perspective.
Aakash Chopra suggests ideal Hardik Pandya swap combinations
Chopra began with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), stating that Mumbai would require more than just Rinku Singh in return. According to him, the most attractive package would be Rinku alongside Harshit Rana, while Harshit with Anukul Roy or Rinku with Anukul would also be reasonable alternatives.
For Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Chopra felt Nicholas Pooran alone would not be enough. He suggested that Mumbai would also need left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan as part of the deal, while adding that LSG could even ask for Mitchell Santner if Mohsin was included in the exchange.
Discussing Delhi Capitals (DC), Chopra identified Axar Patel as the ideal player for Mumbai. He further stated that adding lower-order batter Ashutosh Sharma would make it an excellent trade package, giving MI both a quality all-rounder and additional finishing firepower.
When it came to Punjab Kings (PBKS), Chopra believed Mumbai would show serious interest if Arshdeep Singh was available. He suggested combinations involving Arshdeep with either Nehal Wadhera or Shashank Singh, while also mentioning Marco Jansen and Harpreet Brar as another possible package.
Chopra weighs options involving CSK, GT and RR
Analysing Rajasthan Royals (RR), Chopra admitted that Yashasvi Jaiswal would be a valuable long-term investment but felt the move would not address Mumbai’s immediate need for a bowling all-rounder and lower-middle-order stability following Hardik’s departure.
He also looked at Gujarat Titans (GT), suggesting Rashid Khan and Purple Cap winner Kagiso Rabada as players Mumbai would ideally want in return. However, Chopra acknowledged that Gujarat would be highly unlikely to part with either of their match-winning stars, making such a deal difficult to execute.
For Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Chopra proposed several combinations, including Shivam Dube with Anshul Kamboj, Dube with Khaleel Ahmed, Ayush Mhatre with Kamboj, and Urvil Patel alongside Kamboj. He felt these packages would allow Mumbai to strengthen both their batting and bowling departments.
While discussing the overall situation, Chopra noted that only RCB and SRH did not appear to be in the race for Hardik’s signature, with the remaining franchises reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing the Indian all-rounder into their squads ahead of the IPL 2027.
