Mumbai Indians Bid Farewell to Hardik Pandya, Welcome Arshdeep Singh
Mumbai Indians' Transition: Hardik Pandya Moves to Punjab Kings
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 11: Akash Ambani, co-owner of Mumbai Indians (MI), extended his best wishes to star all-rounder Hardik Pandya following his exit from the franchise. He reflected on the memorable moments shared with Hardik, emphasizing the all-rounder's significant contributions, vibrant energy, and competitive spirit that played a crucial role in the team's achievements over the years.
After much anticipation, the trade between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings (PBKS) has been finalized. MI has parted ways with their star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, while Punjab has traded their homegrown left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh to MI. Hardik will join PBKS for a fee of Rs 18 crore, an increase from his previous Rs 16.35 crore, while Arshdeep will move to MI at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore.
In his statement, Akash Ambani remarked, “Hardik has been a part of some truly special moments with Mumbai Indians. We have witnessed his growth as a cricketer, his emergence on the global stage, and his return to lead the team. His contributions, energy, and competitive spirit have been invaluable to MI. I hold him in high regard, both as a player and as an individual, and I wish him all the best for his future endeavors.”
Welcoming Arshdeep Singh, who is recognized as India's leading T20I wicket-taker, Akash noted that the left-arm bowler will enhance their bowling lineup. “Arshdeep’s addition brings an exciting new dimension to our bowling attack. We are committed to building a team that balances experience, skill, and the drive to compete, and Arshdeep embodies all these qualities. We welcome him to the MI family as he dons the Blue and Gold,” he stated.
Hardik's trade marks the end of his second tenure with MI, a team with which he secured four IPL titles. He first joined MI in 2015 and evolved into one of the league's most influential all-rounders, contributing significantly with both bat and ball during the team's championship runs in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.
After spending seven seasons with MI, Hardik transitioned to Gujarat Titans (GT) before IPL 2022, where he made an immediate impact as captain, leading the franchise to victory in its inaugural season. GT also reached the finals in 2023 before Hardik returned to MI in 2024, reclaiming the captaincy. 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, Hardik's second stint with MI, spanning three seasons, was less impressive, as he managed only 647 runs in 39 matches and 35 innings, averaging 21.53 with a strike rate of 147.82, and a top score of 48*. He claimed 29 wickets in 39 matches, averaging over 34, with one five-wicket haul. In the 2025 season, MI reached the playoffs but finished last, and they ended up in 9th place in both the 2024 and 2026 seasons under Hardik's leadership.
On the other hand, Arshdeep joins MI after eight seasons with PBKS, where he made his IPL debut in 2019 and established himself as one of the top left-arm fast bowlers in the league. With 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches, he is the all-time leading wicket-taker for PBKS.
Arshdeep's knack for securing early breakthroughs with the new ball and his ability to perform under pressure during the death overs have made him a vital part of Punjab's bowling strategy. He took 21 wickets in IPL 2025 and followed it up with 14 wickets in the 2026 season. His left-arm pace and versatility across different phases of an innings will significantly bolster MI's bowling strength.