IPL Franchises Where Hardik Pandya Could Land After Mumbai Indians Snub

IPL franchises that could buy Hardik Pandya [Source: AFP]

Things have certainly not gone well between the Mumbai Indians and their skipper, Hardik Pandya, in the IPL 2026 season. They were one of the favourites to clinch the IPL championship, but the side languished at the bottom of the table and were among the first to be eliminated from the playoff race.

Ever since he became the captain of the Mumbai Indians in 2024, the team has gone downhill, failing to qualify for the IPL playoffs in two of their three campaigns. Moreover, there are now reports emerging that he could be sacked from the MI captaincy after the season ends, and this leaves Hardik’s place in jeopardy.

Reportedly, the Mumbai side is eager to bring in a new captain and have been left disappointed with Hardik’s efforts in IPL 2026. If Hardik indeed gets replaced, the player might not be willing to stay with the franchise, and hence, here are 3 IPL sides where Hardik could land for the next IPL campaign.

1) Chennai Super Kings

Apart from Hardik’s Mumbai Indians exit, rumours have also circulated that Chennai Super kings are keeping a close tab on the situation. For the last three seasons, CSK have failed to qualify for the IPL playoffs, and the team is unsure about Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy abilities.

Moreover, Hardik can be a great addition to CSK’s dodgy middle-order lineup. The middle-order lacks experience and quality, and Hardik can instill the same if CSK go after him.

The CSK franchise also lacks a quality Indian pacer, and Hardik can fulfill that role as well for the Super Kings. 

Most likely, MI will release Hardik ahead of next season, and the Chennai Super Kings might be tempted to go after him, as the side needs a face to represent them, since MS Dhoni might not be there for too long.

Also Read: Hardik Pandya's Replacements- MI Players Who Can Become Captains From IPL 2027

2) Kolkata Knight Riders

Another team that desperately needs an overhaul is the Kolkata Knight Riders. Since winning the IPL title in 2024, the franchise has failed to reach the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, and their captain, Ajinkya Rahane, is under extreme pressure.

If KKR goes after Hardik in the next auction, the team would get a solid and proven IPL captain, and moreover, he’ll strengthen the middle-order, which lacks genuine firepower. Apart from Rinku Singh, and a bit of Rovman Powell, the side doesn’t have any power-hitters in the middle-order, and Hardik could solve the issue.

With Angkrish Raghuvanshi at 3, Cameron Green at 4, Hardik can easily slot in at number 5 for the KKR side.

3) Rajasthan Royals

The Rajasthan Royals franchise has a new superstar, and his name is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The left-handed teenage star has taken the IPL by storm, and all the focus has shifted towards him. As a result, star batter, Yashasvi Jaiswal has taken a back seat, and has played the role of a second fiddle player.

Reportedly, Jaiswal was also unhappy that after Sanju Samson, the RR captaincy was given to Riyan Parag. If Hardik joins the Royals, it could be a win-win situation for both MI and RR. The Mumbai Indians could be interested in a trade deal, with Jaiswal coming to Mumbai, and Hardik joining Rajasthan.

With Rohit Sharma struggling with injury and form, the side needs a reliable opener, and Jaiswal, could be tempted to join them, since he is the local boy (from Mumbai).

Also Read: Who Will Qualify For IPL 2026 Final If GT vs RR Qualifier 2 Gets Washed Out To Rain?