Arshdeep Singh is set to play for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2027, moving from Punjab Kings in a swap deal for Hardik Pandya. Neither Mumbai Indians nor Punjab Kings has issued an official announcement confirming the deal. Reports and a comment from Arshdeep’s father suggest it is close to final.
What Arshdeep’s Father Said
Darshan Singh, speaking in New Zealand where Arshdeep is travelling with the Indian team, indicated that the family had received communication about the pacer’s move to Mumbai Indians. He said the family understood that franchises make such decisions to keep their squads balanced, and had no issue with the move. He expressed happiness about the move and the chance to reunite with several familiar faces. He did not confirm whether Hardik was part of the arrangement, and he did not disclose the financial terms.
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How the Trade Came Together
Cricinfo reported that Mumbai Indians were set to trade Hardik to Punjab Kings in exchange for Arshdeep, with both franchises placing an expression of interest with the IPL. The next steps were written consent from the players, final negotiations and ratification by the IPL. Hardik had held several conversations with the franchise since the latter part of IPL 2026, before he told Mumbai he wanted to be released.
Later reports went further. An IPL source said the trade had been completed, and that Hardik was comfortable playing under Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to continue as Punjab Kings captain. The franchises have still not confirmed it publicly.
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Why Mumbai Wanted Arshdeep
Mumbai Indians finished ninth in IPL 2026 with four wins from 14 matches. Arshdeep gives them a left-arm new-ball and death-overs specialist to pair with Jasprit Bumrah. Mumbai saw him as the missing piece in their pace attack after Deepak Chahar’s underwhelming campaigns in recent seasons.
The five-time champions failed to make the play-offs twice in the three seasons since Hardik took over the captaincy. Former India batter Abhinav Mukund said Mumbai would come out ahead in the swap, since they could field a strong new-ball attack and move on from the Hardik experiment.
What Punjab Kings Gain and Lose
Punjab Kings lose their all-time leading wicket-taker, and gain a fast-bowling all-rounder under Shreyas Iyer, but take on Hardik’s injury risk. Punjab used their Right to Match card to keep Arshdeep for ₹18 crore at the 2025 auction. He then led their bowlers with 21 wickets in the 2025 season.
Concerns remain over Hardik’s fitness, as multiple injury setbacks have kept him away from competitive cricket since the previous IPL season.
What Happens Next
The trade comes ahead of the IPL auction later this month. A formal announcement and IPL ratification are still awaited. For the first time, Arshdeep will play for a team other than Punjab Kings in the IPL.
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