Hardik Pandya's rollercoaster ride with Mumbai Indians seems to have hit a crucial turning point before the IPL 2027 season.

Retained by the five-time champions at an eye-watering cost of Rs 16.35 crore, the fiery all-rounder took Mumbai on a rollercoaster ride in the 2026 season, winning only four matches out of 14. This left them far away in ninth place.

With the trade deadline approaching (November 17) and the auction date on December 16.

Hardik Pandya has had at least four other teams approaching him to strike a deal.

Punjab Kings: The Clear Frontrunners

Among all the suitors, Punjab Kings are the closest. They are said to have had high-level talks with senior management at PBKS and MI and are “all but agreed” on a blockbuster deal.

What's In The Deal? Arshdeep Singh (Fast Bowler) and Vishnu Vinod (WK-Batter) from India will head to Mumbai, while Hardik will go to Punjab.

Unlike other offers, he won't be made captain in Mohali as PBKS are committed to Shreyas Iyer as their skipper.

Chennai Super Kings

The yellow brigade have long been keeping an eye on Hardik Pandya's situation.

Although official sources are playing down the rumours, there is much online talk suggesting that MS Dhoni may get personally involved in convincing his old national team-mate.

Rajasthan Royals

Mumbai Indians made a number of trade ideas to Rajasthan. They wanted to offer a trade that included Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jofra Archer and Ravi Bishnoi.

However, RR said that they would not accept any deal including Jofra.

They, however, are still willing to make a deal involving Jaiswal and Bishnoi in return for Hardik Pandya.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin said that Rajasthan were leading the race as they would add an elite seam all-rounder from India to their middle order.

Kolkata Knight Riders

KKR have been in constant talks with MI. They have offered something very few can match – the chance to be captain. Although they were unwilling to part with their popular finisher Rinku Singh, they are willing to give Pandya the armband, meaning they are a dark horse as we reach November 17.