Hardik Pandya has been a topic of discussion ever since the report of him parting ways with Mumbai Indians after IPL 2026. There have been several rumours doing the rounds about multiple franchises being interested in Hardik Pandya during the ongoing trade window that ends on November 15.
Hardik, an exceptional fast-bowling all-rounder from India with IPL title-winning captaincy experience, will always be valued. The following four teams might try to acquire Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2027 mini-auction.
Here are the 3 teams that should pick Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2027 mini-auction:
3. Kolkata Knight Riders
With Ajinkya Rahane retiring from all cricket, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are in need of a captain, and who better than Hardik Pandya? The all-rounder has captained India, Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians and has a wealth of experience in leadership. It will also give their star finisher, Rinku Singh, a partner at the end and provide KKR with better team balance.
2. Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings are looking for a pace all-rounder since Dwyane Bravo retired. CSK had Deepak Chahar, but he couldn’t do justice to his talents with the bat. However, they have shown interest in Hardik Pandya, and that might solve a lot of things for CSK. One thing that Hardik might not get in CSK is captaincy, as Sanju Samson is a good alternative to Ruturaj Gaikwad if CSK think that way. Hardik Pandya will find a home where he will play under his mentor, MS Dhoni, and he shares a good rapport with Sanju Samson as well.
1. Lucknow Super Giants
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have recycled captains at a good rate, with KL Rahul, Krunal Pandya and Rishabh Pant having led them in the last five years. LSG will want to go and bid for Hardik Pandya, as he will not only fill in the captaincy role but will also bring more balance to LSG XI as an all-rounder. The Lucknow pitch will also help Hardik Pandya, as he loves playing on pitches that aid batters.
