‘MI won’t miss him much’: Ex-India batter weighs in on Hardik Pandya as PBKS-MI trade edges closer

New Delhi: are edging closer to trading for Arshdeep Singh. According to multiple reports, both franchises have already conveyed their intent to the BCCI, with the trade expected to receive formal approval within the next 24 to 72 hours, subject to the completion of the board’s administrative formalities. The move would mark the end of a tough second stint at MI for the all-rounder.

As Hardik’s trade nears completion, the former India batter Aakash Chopra believes that MI will not miss the star all-rounder much in the 2027 season. Hardik failed to lead the Mumbai-based franchise to the playoffs last season, and questions were raised about his leadership during IPL 2026.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said that the five-time IPL champions will be able to manage without Hardik in their team, suggesting that they have enough batting depth even if the all-rounder leaves.

“It’s a serious attack. Will they miss Hardik? Kill me for saying this, they won’t miss him as much. You know how much I like Hardik Pandya, but the truth is that they will manage. If you see their batting, Rohit Sharma comes with either Ryan Rickelton or Quinton de Kock,” Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

“Then you have Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Sherfane Rutherford to bat in the middle, and Naman Dhir. You have depth and quality in batting. You can now play Will Jacks easily,” he added. Chopra also suggested that MI will release New Zealand pacer Trent Boult along with Hardik ahead of the IPL 2027 auction.

Shreyas Iyer to continue as PBKS captain in IPL 2027

Hardik Pandya’s potential arrival at the Punjab-based franchise is likely to affect their leadership plan, with Shreyas Iyer set to retain the captaincy for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, former India captain Rohit Sharma is expected to return as MI skipper after a three-year absence.