Mumbai Have the Upper Hand in the Hardik-Arshdeep Trade - Irfan Pathan

The high profile trade between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2027 has sparked debate among cricket experts. Mumbai Indians have traded their captain Hardik Pandya to Punjab Kings in exchange for left arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. Hardik will join Punjab for ₹18 crore, an increase from his previous fee of ₹16.35 crore, while Arshdeep will move to Mumbai at his existing fee of ₹18 crore. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Mumbai Indians have benefited significantly from the deal, as Arshdeep’s arrival strengthens their pace bowling attack.

Pathan said Arshdeep’s presence would allow Mumbai to use Jasprit Bumrah more effectively and give the team another reliable Indian fast-bowling option. He also pointed out that Punjab Kings would gain a powerful middle and lower order batter in Hardik, but would need to find a suitable replacement for Arshdeep. Pathan further expressed concern about Punjab’s bowling resources and said the franchise should invest in a quality spinner as well. Arshdeep was a key member of Punjab’s bowling attack, taking 111 wickets in 96 IPL appearances. His departure leaves the franchise with an important gap to fill ahead of the new season.