MI's horror show in IPL 2026 where they finished 2nd last has left skipper Hardik Pandya's future with the franchise uncertain. He is reportedly on his way out ahead of the mini auction on December 16. The list of retained and released players has to be revealed by mid-November. Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin is of the opinion that Hardik will be released or traded ahead of the auction.

Who Will Hardik Pandya Play for in IPL 2027?

Ashwin is sure that Hardik will be traded and brought up the possibility that MI could exchange him for a leg-spinner or left-armer from PBKS. The odds of him being retained ar less. IPL 2027 is expected to see the 33-year-old all-rounder in a different jersey.

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Ravichandran Ashwin's Honest Take

"It's almost certain that he won't be with MI unless they try to retain him at the last moment. But I do believe he'll be traded. MI might look for a leg-spinner in the trade, and there were even talks of MI targeting an Indian left-arm pacer from PBKS for Hardik," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Replacing Rohit Sharma at the Helm for MI

For the unversed, Hardik led GT to the IPL title in their first season in 2022. In 2023, he led them to the final again, but they lost to CSK in a thriller. In 2024, Hardik returned to MI and replaced Rohit Sharma as the skipper. But the return did not bring much success for the five-time champions who have not won the title since 2020.

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Hardik Pandya's Dismal Report Card as MI Skipper

In 2024, MI finished last in the IPL. There was also controversy about Rohit's removal from the leadership role. In 2025, Hardik did take MI to the playoffs, but they failed to enter the final. Then of course came the implosion in 2026. Hardik failed to make an impression as captain and player. Now, it may be time for MI to move on from him.

Hardik Pandya's Uncertain Future

The question is, where will Hardik go? Who will opt for him? Is he a captaincy option? Will he be traded? Could he be retained? Will he go under the hammer on December 16? These are all valid questions as the two-time T20 World Cup winner's fate remains uncertain.