![Hardik Pandya Joining RCB? [Source: X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1780413968120_HardikPandyaRCBIPL.jpg?type=hq)
Hardik Pandya Joining RCB? [Source: X]
In a viral image circulating on social media, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya was seen holding a private meeting with RCB coach Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik. But what exactly is the truth behind his picture? Let’s find out.
The transfer rumours around Pandya began when reports came out that MI are all set to sack him as captain following a disastrous IPL 2026 campaign where Mumbai finished in the ninth position.
Some reports also suggested that Hardik himself has decided to step down from the role due to constant mental fatigue and pressure.
Did Hardik Pandya get a trade offer from RCB?
Recently, a picture of Hardik Pandya sharing a table with RCB coach Andy Flower and mentor Dinesh Karthik went viral on social media. The image showed Hardik listening to DK keenly.
As the picture went viral, fans speculated that Hardik could soon reunite with his elder brother Krunal Pandya at RCB by accepting a potential trade offer. The news spread like wildfire and gained traction quickly.
However, the reality turned out to be completely different, as the viral image is fake and AI-generated. In reality, Hardik Pandya had no meeting with DK, Flower or any other personnel related to RCB.
Fans on social media were fooled as the AI-generated image appeared almost real and went viral because Hardik’s name was associated with it.
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Will Hardik actually consider joining RCB?
That being said, even in the future, in a situation where Hardik does approach RCB with a trade offer, the two-time champions are unlikely to accept it.
Firstly, they have a settled core that won them back-to-back titles in 2025 and 2026. With Rajat Patidar succeeding as captain, RCB have no room to fit in Hardik.
Also, Hardik Pandya’s relationship with his brother Krunal Pandya has hit the rocks, meaning they might not get along in the dressing room.
That will further disbalance the team dynamics. Hence, RCB will not willingly set their house on fire when everything is going well for them after nearly two decades.
What went wrong between Hardik Pandya and MI?
Things came crashing down for Hardik Pandya when Mumbai Indians finished at the ninth position in IPL 2026. According to reports, the franchise owners are unhappy with Hardik’s captaincy and will ask him to step down ahead of 2027.
Not only that, but a conflicting report also suggested that Hardik was displeased with senior players not giving their 100% on the field. Now, fresh rumours suggest that a senior MI player has backed Tilak Varma to replace Pandya as MI captain.
While the name of the senior player hasn’t been revealed, the most obvious candidate many people will think of is Rohit Sharma. His alleged suggestion is a clear sign that the franchise may be thinking long-term rather than choosing another established veteran.
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