While Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have emerged as the frontrunners in the speculation, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has offered his own perspective on what Mumbai Indians should do if they decide to part ways with their captain.

Ravichandran Ashwin reveals his only condition for a Hardik Pandya trade

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin explained why the franchise should be cautious before agreeing to any potential trade. Sharing his thoughts on the ongoing rumours, Ashwin suggested that he would only consider a deal with Kolkata Knight Riders if Mumbai Indians receive both Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return. According to Ashwin, a package centred around Cameron Green may not be the ideal solution for Mumbai Indians, especially considering the Australian all-rounder’s uncertain availability during an Ashes year.

“Don’t count out Hardik Pandya going to a franchise other than CSK or KKR. The talks are that CSK will give Dube and a pacer, while KKR gives away Cameron Green. What happens if Green decides to leave to focus on the Ashes next year? “If I were MI, I would accept a deal with KKR on only one condition, which is getting Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return. That is the only way MI gets stronger,” Ashwin said.

Ashwin believes acquiring two proven Indian players would provide Mumbai Indians with greater long-term stability than relying on an overseas player whose availability could become uncertain because of international commitments.

Hardik Pandya’s future continues to dominate IPL 2027 trade discussions

The trade rumours gained momentum after Mumbai Indians endured a disappointing IPL 2026 season, finishing near the bottom of the points table. Since then, speculation has linked Hardik with both Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, although neither franchise has made any official announcement regarding a potential move.

Reports have suggested that Cameron Green could headline a possible deal involving KKR, while Shivam Dube and Khaleel Ahmed have also been mentioned in connection with Chennai Super Kings. However, Ashwin believes Mumbai Indians would benefit far more by securing established Indian stars such as Rinku and Harshit rather than relying solely on an overseas replacement.

With the IPL 2027 trade window still underway, Pandya’s future remains one of the biggest stories to watch, and whether Mumbai Indians receive the kind of package Ashwin has proposed could ultimately determine if any blockbuster move materialises.