Hardik Pandya Transfers to Punjab Kings in Landmark IPL Deal
Hardik Pandya Joins Punjab Kings in Major IPL Trade
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has shared his enthusiasm about joining Punjab Kings (PBKS), showcasing his exceptional all-round abilities under the guidance of captain Shreyas Iyer. He expressed his commitment to support his captain, coach Ricky Ponting, and the entire Punjab squad, stating, "I am standing behind you all." In a significant trade within the Indian Premier League (IPL), the former captain of Mumbai Indians (MI) will be moving to PBKS, while Arshdeep Singh, India's top T20I bowler, will head to MI in exchange.
Hardik's transfer to PBKS comes with a salary of Rs 18 crore, an increase from his previous Rs 16.35 crore. Meanwhile, Arshdeep will join MI at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Hardik welcomed his new team, saying, "Sat Sri Akal, My Captain. Shreyas. My Coach. Ricky. My team. All of Punjab. I am standing behind you."
Pandya's Career and Time with Mumbai Indians
This trade marks the end of Hardik's second tenure with MI, a team with which he secured four IPL championships. He first joined MI in 2015 and quickly became one of the league's most influential all-rounders, playing crucial roles in their title victories in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020. After spending seven seasons with Mumbai, he transitioned to Gujarat Titans (GT) before IPL 2022, where he made an immediate impact as captain, leading the team to victory in their inaugural season. GT also reached the finals in 2023 before Hardik returned to MI in 2024, taking on the captaincy once again.
Over 162 IPL matches, Pandya has amassed 2,955 runs with a strike rate of 146.28 and taken 82 wickets, highlighting his status as a match-winner. However, his recent stint with MI was less impressive, as he scored only 647 runs in 39 matches, averaging 21.53 with a strike rate of 147.82, and a top score of 48*. He also took 29 wickets in 39 matches, averaging over 34, with one five-wicket haul. Despite MI reaching the playoffs in 2025, they finished last in the 2024 and 2026 seasons under his leadership.
Arshdeep Singh's Transition to Mumbai Indians
On the other hand, Arshdeep Singh is set to join MI after spending eight seasons with PBKS, where he made his IPL debut in 2019 and became one of the league's premier left-arm fast bowlers. With 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches, he stands as PBKS's all-time leading wicket-taker. His knack for securing early breakthroughs and performing under pressure during the death overs has made him an essential part of Punjab's bowling lineup. In IPL 2025, he took 21 wickets, followed by 14 wickets in the 2026 season. His left-arm pace and versatility will significantly enhance MI's bowling strength.