12 November,2026 02:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Hardik Pandya (File Pic)
Mumbai Indians (MI) co-owner Akash Ambani has wished star all-rounder Hardik Pandya well following his exit from the franchise, noting that the five-time champions shared "some very special moments" with him while praising his energy and competitive spirit.
After days of speculation, the blockbuster trade between MI and Punjab Kings (PBKS) is complete. While Mumbai parted ways with Pandya, who joins PBKS for Rs 18 crore, up from Rs 16.35 crore, Punjab traded homegrown left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh to MI at his existing Rs 18 crore fee.
"Hardik has shared some very special moments with Mumbai Indians. We have seen him grow as a cricketer, make his mark on the world stage and then return to lead the team. His contribution, his energy and the competitive spirit he brings to the field have been valuable to Mumbai Indians. I have great respect for him, both as a cricketer and as a person, and wish him nothing but the very best for everything that lies ahead." Akash Ambani said.
Welcoming India's leading T20I wicket-taker, Ambani added that Arshdeep Singh will "add an extra dimension" to their bowling attack.
"Arshdeep's arrival adds an exciting dimension to our bowling attack. We are always looking to build a team with the right balance of experience, skill and hunger to compete, and Arshdeep brings all of these qualities. We welcome him along with the MI Paltan as he takes the field in Blue and Gold," he said.
The deal concludes Hardik Pandya's second spell with MI, where he initially debuted in 2015 and lifted four IPL titles (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020) before captaining Gujarat Titans (GT) to a maiden title in 2022 and a runner-up finish in 2023. Across 162 IPL appearances, he has amassed 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 alongside 82 wickets.
However, his three-season return as MI skipper proved underwhelming, yielding 647 runs across 35 innings at an average of 21.53 (best 48') and 29 wickets in 39 games at an average above 34. Under his leadership, Mumbai reached the 2025 playoffs but finished bottom and ninth in 2024 and 2026, respectively.
