NEW DELHI : Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya is making headlines since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as there are speculations that the superstar all-rounder will leave the franchise after a dismal season where they finished ninth in the tournament.
However, after months of speculation, TOI reported that Hardik could now stay with the Mumbai-based franchise for another season, even if he does not remain captain.
Hardik has been linked with a possible trade for several months, but a deal has not taken shape yet. According to reports, MI have not received an offer that they consider good enough. As a result, Hardik staying with the five-time champions for IPL 2027 remains a real possibility.
At the same time, MI are expected to make a change in leadership. Rohit Sharma is believed to be involved in the discussions, although he is reportedly not interested in becoming captain again.
Who could become MI’s new captain?
The report further stated that Mumbai Indians are considering a new captain for the next season.
Rohit, who guided MI to five IPL titles, is not looking to return to the captaincy. However, the former skipper is reportedly playing an active role in deciding who should lead the team next.
Tilak Varma and Jasprit Bumrah are currently the two main options being discussed. The report suggests that Tilak is the frontrunner at this stage.
What is happening with Hardik Pandya’s trade?
MI have reportedly held discussions with Kolkata Knight Riders over a possible Hardik trade. KKR had also considered including Australia all-rounder Cameron Green as part of the deal.
However, the proposal did not convince MI. One of the concerns is believed to be Green’s workload and how much cricket he could be available for next year.
Chennai Super Kings are another team that could enter the picture. Talks with CSK are expected to take place after the franchise finalises its new head coach.
A source tracking the developments said Hardik could still remain at MI if a suitable trade cannot be worked out.
“Don’t be surprised if he is not traded at all. Discussions have also happened with the player along these lines. For a trade to happen, multiple things need to fall into place. So it’s not that straightforward,” says a source tracking developments,” said a source close to developments, as per the report.
Will Suryakumar Yadav stay in Mumbai Indians?
Suryakumar Yadav is also expected to remain with Mumbai Indians for IPL 2027.
The India batter had a disappointing 2026 season, but MI are reportedly not looking to make a decision based on just one campaign. The franchise is expected to continue backing the 35-year-old.
“Yes, he didn’t have a good season last year, but what about the ones before that? MI will not discard a player based on one season, and that’s not how they operate. They take pride in the ‘One Family’ tag and swear by it,” the source said of Suryakumar’s situation.
Will MI change coach ahead of IPL 2027?
Meanwhile, Mahela Jayawardene is expected to continue as MI’s head coach. He reportedly has a two-plus-one-year contract, which could see him remain in charge for another season.
With IPL 2027 set to be the final season before the next mega auction, Mumbai Indians do not appear to be planning a complete overhaul. The franchise could instead look to make a few key changes while keeping much of its core group intact.
