IPL 2027: Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade paperwork completed, BCCI approval awaited

The much-discussed Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 has moved a step closer to completion, with the initial paperwork between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) reportedly finalised. However, the blockbuster deal is still awaiting formal approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL governing council.

Under the proposed arrangement, India all-rounder Hardik Pandya will move to Punjab Kings, while left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh will join five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians.

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An IPL source confirmed to IANS on Saturday that the initial formalities had been completed, with the final approval and announcement still pending. "Yes, the initial paperwork for this trade has been completed. Now it has to get formal approval of the BCCI and IPL governing council, and then it can be announced along with the final amount," the source told IANS.

The development comes ahead of the November 17 retention deadline for IPL 2027. Punjab Kings had reportedly emerged as the frontrunners to secure Hardik's services, moving ahead of Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the race.

Vishnu Vinod not part of Hardik-Arshdeep trade

Wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Vinod, who was initially understood to be part of the proposed exchange, has reportedly been excluded from the deal. An IANS source clarified that Vinod will not be involved in the Hardik-Arshdeep trade, which is now expected to involve only the two Indian players.

Hardik Pandya's second stint with Mumbai Indians set to end

If approved, the trade will bring an end to Hardik's second stint with Mumbai Indians. The all-rounder returned to the franchise ahead of IPL 2024 after being acquired from Gujarat Titans (GT) through an all-cash deal.

MI also handed him the captaincy, replacing Rohit Sharma, who had led the franchise to five IPL titles.

However, Hardik's captaincy tenure did not deliver the expected results. Mumbai Indians finished at the bottom of the points table in IPL 2024, reached the playoffs in 2025 and slipped to ninth place in the 2026 season. In 39 matches as MI captain, Hardik registered 15 wins and 24 defeats.

Arshdeep Singh set for new IPL chapter after Punjab Kings stint

Arshdeep has been associated with Punjab Kings since making his IPL debut in 2019. His consistent performances for the franchise also helped him establish himself in the Indian national team.

The left-arm pacer is currently part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing series against New Zealand. He is also India's leading wicket-taker in T20 Internationals.

Both Hardik and Arshdeep were members of India's T20 World Cup-winning squads in 2024 and 2026.

Hardik Pandya's fitness concerns ahead of IPL 2027

Hardik's fitness could be an important factor for Punjab Kings as they prepare for the next season. The all-rounder has not featured in competitive cricket since IPL 2026 after dealing with a series of injuries.

His latest setback was a shin problem, which ruled him out of India A's one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry in October. His recovery also prevented him from being included in Baroda's squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

Punjab Kings likely to retain Marcus Stoinis

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have reportedly changed their plans regarding Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. The franchise had explored a possible trade involving Stoinis and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan.

However, the proposed exchange appears to have lost momentum, with Stoinis now likely to remain with PBKS for IPL 2027. In another development, Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants are understood to be discussing a potential multi-player trade involving more than two players. The identities of the players involved have not been officially confirmed.

The BCCI recently extended the IPL 2027 retention deadline to November 17, with the original date clashing with India's fifth ODI against New Zealand on November 15. The IPL 2027 mini auction is scheduled to take place in Goa on December 16.