Indian star Hardik Pandya has been away from the cricket field for the last six months. The 33-year-old is at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, as he tries to get fit after suffering a spate of injuries. Pandya recently collaborated with noted YouTubers Mr. Beast and CarryMinati for a latest video.

The video featured Hardik and Mr. Beast (real name James Donaldson) in a baseball challenge. The aim was to hit the most home runs, which is similar to hitting a six in cricket. America’s noted YouTuber went first and didn’t manage to clear the infield on his first hit.

Hardik was up next, and the player was asked if he had played baseball before, to which the Indian star replied with a stoic no. Taking a cricket stance, the batter missed the home run by a mere few inches. Both contestants then hit two home runs each heading into the final leg.

Mr. Beast saw his final hit fall short, and then it was Pandya’s turn to deposit the ball out of the park and claim the home-run challenge. His clean hitting stunned everyone as the all-rounder tried his hand at the sport for the first time.

What’s next for Hardik?

There is massive speculation around the player’s future with MI after a dismal IPL 2026 season. According to a report carried by Indian Express on Friday, Rohit Sharma is likely to be handed the captaincy once again.

The report also stated that if Hardik’s trade fails to happen, he will be happy to play under Rohit’s captaincy.

Chennai Super Kings were one of the sides that were linked with the player after the 19th season ended. The franchise’s CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, was asked by SportStar to comment on the potential trade, but he remained silent.

According to reports, afew weeks ago, it was claimed that the cricketer could only return to action before the next season of IPL.

Meanwhile, former India batter Aakash Chopra said that the cricketer could play for MI even if Rohit becomes the captain once more.

“Is Rohit Sharma returning as a captain? Is there a possibility? Yes, there is a possibility. If Hardik Pandya is not traded, he will be okay playing under the leadership of Rohit Sharma. I don’t think it is an issue. Why wouldn’t he play if there is no trade and if there are no discussions? He was bought for INR 10 lakh by Mumbai Indians long back, and they did everything for him.

He can’t refuse to play, and he will definitely play for them.”