Hardik Pandya Trade: KKR & MI begin fresh talks, Angkrish Raghuvanshi & Harshit Rana involved - Reports
KKR eye Hardik Pandya for captaincy role after Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement.
Mumbai Indians (MI) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have reportedly resumed talks over a possible Hardik Pandya trade ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027. As per the reports in Telegraph, MI have asked for Indian pacer Harshit Rana and wicketkeeper-batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi in exchange for their all-rounder.
The IPL 2027 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16, and franchises have been asked to submit their retention list by November 15. Several teams are exploring possible trades as they prepare their squads for the new season.
KKR are interested in bringing Pandya as they look for a new captain following Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement. The all-rounder has experience leading an IPL team, having guided Gujarat Titans to the title in their debut season in 2022.
MI demand Harshit Rana and Angkrish Raghuvanshi in Hardik Pandya trade
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According to a report by The Telegraph, Mumbai Indians are particularly interested in Raghuvanshi because they need an Indian wicketkeeper in their squad. The 22-year-old has impressed with his performances in domestic cricket and IPL and is seen as a promising batting talent.
His addition could help Mumbai address their wicketkeeping concerns while strengthening their Indian batting options. Rana would also add more quality to their pace attack.
However, KKR are hesitant to release Raghuvanshi, who has been backed by their head coach Abhishek Nayar. The franchise is also unwilling to part ways with key players such as Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy and Rinku Singh.
KKR had earlier raised concerns about Pandya’s fitness, as he has not played a match since the previous IPL season. Despite this, the franchise continues to value his leadership and experience.
Both teams are expected to continue discussions this week before taking a final call. MI want to settle Hardik Pandya’s future before the mini-auction so they can finalise their retention plans.
MI have also explored other trade options ahead of IPL 2027. They have shown interest in Rajasthan Royals’ Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravi Bishnoi. The franchise is looking to add an Indian batter and spinner to their squad.
CSK have also shown interest in Pandya, but a move to Chennai could be difficult as the franchise cannot offer him the captaincy role. KKR could therefore remain a strong option, provided both teams reach an agreement over the players involved.
Which two KKR players do Mumbai Indians want in exchange for Hardik Pandya?
MI are reportedly demanding fast bowler Harshit Rana and wicketkeeper-batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi.
When is the IPL 2027 mini-auction scheduled?
The IPL 2027 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16.
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