Punjab Kings have made a big move ahead of IPL 2027 by trading Hardik Pandya from Mumbai Indians in exchange for Arshdeep Singh.
The franchise is not looking at the Indian all rounder as a short term addition, with co-owner Ness Wadia confirming that they have long term plans for him.
Ness Wadia described Hardik as a world class player who brings valuable experience to the team.
He also believes the all rounder will add more strength to the side under head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer.
Wadia said Hardik’s experience, all-round ability and record in T20 cricket made him an important addition to the squad.
He also believes the all rounder can take responsibility in the lower order and help other players handle pressure.
Hardik has played 162 IPL matches, scoring 2,955 runs and taking 82 wickets. Despite this, his recent IPL numbers have not been as strong as his earlier seasons.
He scored 216 runs and picked up 11 wickets in 2024, followed by 224 runs and 14 wickets in 2025. In IPL 2026, he managed 206 runs and four wickets in 10 matches.
Wadia also addressed concerns over Hardik’s injury history, saying the franchise expects to see a reinvigorated player in the upcoming season.
Wadia made it clear that the franchise sees Hardik as a long term investment and expects him to help Punjab Kings win their first IPL title.
He also admitted that releasing Arshdeep was a difficult decision after the fast bowler spent eight seasons with the franchise. Despite this, he said both PBKS and MI were happy with the trade.
Hardik will now play under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy, with Ricky Ponting continuing as head coach.
PBKS will hope his experience and all-round ability help them take the next step after finishing as runners up in IPL 2025.
