Pandya-Arshdeep swap near completion as MI and PBKS lodge BCCI interest
Hardik Pandya's proposed move to Punjab Kings, with Arshdeep Singh set to join Mumbai Indians in exchange, is reported to be all but final ahead of the next Indian Premier League season, India Today reported on November 7, 2026. Both franchises have submitted their expressions of interest to the BCCI and an official confirmation is expected within one to three days.
Both Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings have filed paperwork with the BCCI as part of the proposed trade and the board is completing necessary formalities. Shreyas Iyer will remain captain of Punjab Kings, while Rohit Sharma is expected to be announced as Mumbai Indians' new captain soon. The clubs and observers have described the deal as one of the biggest moves ahead of the next IPL campaign. Hardik's departure would end his current stint with Mumbai Indians and Arshdeep's arrival would strengthen Mumbai's pace resources.
Arshdeep Singh is identified in the proposal as a left-arm fast bowler and a key member of Punjab's bowling unit. The reporting describes him as one of India's dependable white-ball bowlers and a consistent T20 performer with experience bowling in the powerplay and at the death. Mumbai Indians are expected to add him to address their need for a quality Indian left-arm fast bowler.
Hardik Pandya's attributes are noted as all-round contributions with both bat and ball that could add balance to Punjab Kings' playing XI. With Shreyas Iyer continuing as captain, Hardik is expected to join Punjab as a player rather than take over the leadership role. The franchise's previous season-ending positions and squad composition are cited as reasons for pursuing an experienced all-rounder.
The two franchises endured differing but disappointing 2026 campaigns: Mumbai Indians finished ninth in the 10-team standings with just four wins from 14 matches. The five-time champions failed to reach the playoffs twice in the three seasons since Hardik took over as captain in 2024, according to the report.
Punjab Kings finished fifth in IPL 2026 with 15 points, narrowly missing out on a playoff spot after a strong first half of the season followed by a dip in form. The report notes Punjab had reached the final in 2025 under Shreyas Iyer and that the franchise aims to strengthen its squad for another title push.
If finalised, the swap would be significant for both teams as they seek to move on from their respective 2026 campaigns, and India Today reports that official confirmation should arrive in the next one to three days once the BCCI completes the necessary paperwork.
