Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade all but done as MI, PBKS prepare for major swap

Hardik Pandya's move to Punjab Kings in exchange for Arshdeep Singh is all but done, with both franchises having submitted their expressions of interest to the BCCI.Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh are set for IPL team swaps. Courtesy: Reuters and PTINew Delhi,Nov 7, 2026 18:29 ISTHardik Pandya's trade to Punjab Kings is all but done, with Mumbai Indians set to receive Arshdeep Singh in exchange, India Today has learned. Both franchises have submitted their expressions of interest to the BCCI. An official confirmation is expected in the next one to three days, once the board completes the necessary paperwork.Shreyas Iyer will continue as the captain of Punjab Kings, while Rohit Sharma is expected to be announced as Mumbai Indians' new captain soon.The proposed swap could prove to be one of the biggest moves ahead of the next Indian Premier League season. Hardik's departure would bring an end to his current stint with Mumbai Indians, while Arshdeep would be a significant addition to their pace attack. The left-arm fast bowler has established himself as one of India's dependable white-ball bowlers and has been a key part of Punjab's bowling unit.The move would also address Mumbai's need for a quality Indian left-arm fast bowler. Arshdeep has been one of India's most consistent performers in T20 cricket and brings valuable experience of bowling in both the powerplay and at the death. For Punjab, Hardik's ability to contribute with both bat and ball could add greater balance to their playing XI. ROHIT SHARMA SET FOR MI CAPTAINCY RETURNThe proposed trade comes after disappointing IPL 2026 campaigns for both franchises, although their seasons unfolded differently. Mumbai Indians endured a particularly difficult campaign, finishing ninth in the 10-team standings with just four wins from 14 matches. The five-time champions have failed to reach the playoffs twice in the three seasons since Hardik took over as captain in 2024.Rohit, who led Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles, is now expected to return as captain for the 2027 season. His reappointment could mark a significant change in the franchise's leadership structure after three seasons under Hardik. Punjab Kings, meanwhile, finished fifth in IPL 2026 with 15 points, narrowly missing out on a playoff spot. They enjoyed a strong first half of the season but suffered a significant dip in form towards the business end. The franchise had reached the final in 2025 under Shreyas Iyer and will be hoping to make another title push with a stronger squad.With Shreyas continuing as captain, Hardik is expected to join Punjab as a player rather than take over the leadership role. The all-rounder's arrival could give the franchise another experienced option as it looks to address its shortcomings.For Mumbai, Arshdeep's arrival would strengthen their pace attack, while Rohit's expected return to captaincy could usher in a fresh start. The proposed swap could prove significant for both teams as they look to put their disappointing 2026 campaigns behind them and build towards IPL 2027.- Ends