Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has become the most sought-after name ahead of 15th November, which is the official date for the ten IPL franchises to submit their retentions and releases. The 33-year-old had expressed his desire to move to a different franchise after a dismal IPL 2026, both as a captain and as a player.

According to the Telegraph, Kolkata Knight Riders have once again renewed their interest in Pandya. The move could be put in motion as the side is looking for a new captain after Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement. This has left a huge captaincy vacuum.

The three-time IPL winners would love Pandya to lead the side despite his struggles with Mumbai Indians over the past three seasons.

However, MI’s demands of players in return have been the massive stumbling block.

The five-time IPL winners want to include Varun Chakraborty or Rinku Singh in the deal, which Kolkata have been reluctant to do. Both players have been key members of the side over the last few years and enjoy huge support amongst the fans.

The two other names, who have emerged as potential trades, are Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Harshit Rana.

The request has to be approved by the Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla-owned franchise.

Raghuvanshi is a local Mumbai player, and a move to his home franchise could be a dream come true for the batter. Rana, on the other hand, didn’t play the 2026 season, and a chance to play for MI could be a huge step-up in his career.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s analysis to come true?

A few days ago, former India star Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that KKR could be the best bet for Pandya if he leaves MI.

“Hardik is keen to move on, but whether it happens or not, that’s to be seen. Mumbai have one problem. They don’t have an Indian wicketkeeper-batter. Another concern is the bowling. Bumrah is there, and they might play Santner in all the games,” Ashwin said.

He also added, “KKR could be a good option as well, and Hardik can also be given the captaincy role there. Mumbai might seek Varun in return, but it is unlikely he will move, because Abhishek Nayar may not let this happen.

Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh are good.”