MI finished on penultimate position in IPL 2026 | PC- AFP
With the IPL trade talks at their peak, Mumbai Indians (MI) are the most talked-about franchise at the given moment.
If the speculation is to be believed, Hardik Pandya is set to be traded to Punjab in exchange for Arshdeep Singh and Vishnu Vinod. However, that’s not the only case, given MI’s plans ahead of the big IPL 2027 mini auctions.
MI to release Deepak Chahar, Boult, de Kock
According to renowned journalist Amol Karhadkar, the five-time champions are looking to release a few big names to free up purse balance for the auction.
MI currently have INR 55 lakhs, which will increase by INR 6 crore under the IPL rules for the 2025/27 cycle.
Reportedly, Mumbai would release star opener Quinton de Kock and their new-ball weapons, Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar.
Despite being acquired for just INR 1 crore, de Kock, who scored 132 runs in three games, including a century, could not be retained, as per journalist Amol Karhadkar.
The Kiwi left-arm speedster was a disappointment for MI last season, picking up two wickets in five outings. He was bought for INR 12.50 crore, which seems a hefty buy in hindsight.
Meanwhile, Chahar, hired for INR 9.25 crore, also had a substandard season. However, reports suggest he could be bought again after a price correction in the auctions, scheduled for December 16 in Goa.
If these releases are done, MI's purse will be increased to INR 29.30 crore, which would be massive for shopping in a mini auction.
Rohit Sharma set to be reinstated as MI captain for IPL 2027?
If Mumbai breaks up with Hardik Pandya, who took over the reins since IPL 2024, the franchise will be left without a captain.
The franchise is looking to revisit the idea of handing the captaincy back to Rohit Sharma, under whom it has won all five of its trophies. Although neither the franchise nor the player has announced it yet, the news is buzzing in media quarters.
With the five-time champions appointing a new coaching staff with Keiron Pollard at the helm, it hints that Rohit Sharma could return to a major role at the franchise next season.
It will be interesting to watch the timeline of these trade, captaincy, and release-related announcements.
