New Delhi, November 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India batter Abhinav Mukund has raised questions over the team dynamics at Punjab Kings (PBKS) if Hardik Pandya joins the franchise from Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of IPL 2027, wondering whether the all-rounder would be comfortable playing under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy.
Speculation surrounding a possible trade has gathered momentum, with reports suggesting that PBKS could send left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh to Mumbai in exchange for Pandya. The proposed deal is reportedly awaiting formal approval from the BCCI and the IPL governing council.
Mukund said the potential trade could significantly alter Punjab’s team composition, particularly because the franchise had invested heavily in building a core around Iyer, Arshdeep and Yuzvendra Chahal.
“If Hardik comes to Punjab, does he play as just an all-rounder? Because I would think that he would play under Shreyas Iyer. So, there is that team dynamics question as well. Once again, is he okay with it? Has Shreyas had conversations about it?” Mukund said on JioStar.
He also suggested that Pandya’s arrival could affect the opportunities available to young all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, who has been progressing through the India A setup.
Mukund wondered whether Shedge would get sufficient chances in a squad featuring several all-rounders, particularly in a format where teams can use the Impact Player rule.
The former batter also discussed reports linking PBKS with Lucknow Super Giants pacer Mohsin Khan in a possible exchange involving Marcus Stoinis. He flagged Mohsin’s fitness record as a concern and suggested that veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami could be a better option for Punjab.
Iyer guided PBKS to the IPL 2025 final, where they lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The franchise will be looking to strengthen its squad ahead of the 2027 season, which will mark the tournament’s 20th edition.
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