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Sports

‘RR are at the top of the list’: R Ashwin reveals key details on Hardik Pandya’s trade ahead of IPL 2027

hellohimachalse@gmail.com 18 Oct 2026 1 hour ago

New Delhi: Speculation around trade has intensified ahead of the , with former India cricketer R Ashwin commenting on reports of a possible trade to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Reports of a possible trade between CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) have gained plenty of traction on social media.

According to those reports, former CSK captain MS Dhoni could personally persuade Hardik to join the Chennai-based franchise. However, the former spinner believes that while Hardik’s arrival at CSK would strengthen them, a deal remains a distant possibility.

“There have been conversations that Dhoni will personally convince Hardik Pandya to come to CSK. It will be a great addition for CSK. But in my opinion, it is a real long shot,” said Ashwin.

Ashwin further suggested that the Rajasthan Royals (RR) emerge as a strong contender to secure Hardik’s services if a trade goes through. “From what I’ve heard, RR are at the top of the list in the Hardik trade,” he added.

Ashwin’s remarks come at a time when the Mumbai-based franchise braces for major change in its coaching setup following the exit of head coach Mahela Jayawardene.

Mahela Jayawardene steps down as MI head coach

Mumbai Indians announced on Saturday that Jayawardene had stepped down from the head coach role following two seasons in charge. The 49-year-old had guided MI to three IPL titles during his first tenure, and returned to the role ahead of the 2025 season.

During his second stint as head coach, MI finished fourth in the 2025 season before losing Qualifier 2. However, the five-time champions endured a disappointing campaign in the latest edition, finishing ninth.

The franchise is now looking for a new head coach, with the November 15 IPL retention deadline less than a month away. Meanwhile, Hardik has not played any competitive match since IPL 2026 and has missed several crucial games due to multiple injuries.

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