Hardik Pandya Joins Punjab Kings in Major IPL Trade
Hardik Pandya's Exciting Move to Punjab Kings
Chandigarh (Punjab) [India] - Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has shared his enthusiasm about joining Punjab Kings (PBKS) under the guidance of captain Shreyas Iyer. He expressed his support for his captain, coach Ricky Ponting, and the entire team, stating, "I am standing behind you all."
In a significant player exchange within the Indian Premier League (IPL), the former captain of Mumbai Indians (MI) is set to join PBKS. In return, PBKS will send Arshdeep Singh, India's top T20I bowler, to MI. Hardik's new contract with PBKS is valued at Rs 18 crore, an increase from his previous Rs 16.35 crore, while Arshdeep will continue with MI at his current fee of Rs 18 crore.
Hardik took to Instagram to announce his new partnership with PBKS, saying, "Sat Sri Akal, My Captain. Shreyas. My Coach. Ricky. My team. All of Punjab. I am standing behind you."
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This trade marks the end of Hardik's second term with MI, a team he helped secure four IPL championships. He first joined MI in 2015 and became one of the league's standout all-rounders, playing crucial roles in their title victories in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.
After spending seven seasons with MI, he transitioned to Gujarat Titans (GT) before the IPL 2022 season, where he made an immediate impact as captain, leading them to a championship in their inaugural season. GT also reached the finals in 2023 before Hardik returned to MI in 2024, taking on the captaincy role. Over 162 IPL matches, he has amassed 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 and taken 82 wickets, showcasing his prowess 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 his highest score being 48*. He also took 29 wickets in 39 matches, averaging over 34. While MI reached the playoffs in 2025, they finished last in both the 2024 and 2026 seasons under his leadership.
On the other hand, Arshdeep Singh is moving to MI after eight seasons with PBKS, where he debuted in 2019 and became one of the league's top left-arm fast bowlers. With 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches, he holds the record as PBKS's all-time leading wicket-taker.
Arshdeep's knack for securing early wickets and performing under pressure during the death overs has made him an essential part of Punjab's bowling lineup. He took 21 wickets in IPL 2025 and followed it up with 14 wickets in the 2026 season. His left-arm pace and versatility will significantly enhance MI's bowling strength.