Hardik Pandya joins Punjab Kings in major IPL player trade
Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia described the swap for Arshdeep Singh as the biggest trade in IPL history.
Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians have completed a marquee player trade involving Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh, according to reports from The Times of India and Rediff. The deal was made official on Wednesday after the franchises exchanged Expressions of Interest and submitted paperwork to the BCCI on Monday.
Hardik Pandya will move to Punjab Kings at an increased fee of Rs 18 crore, up from his previous fee of Rs 16.35 crore. Arshdeep Singh will join Mumbai Indians at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore.
Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia described the exchange as the largest trade in the history of the IPL. Wadia said that while letting go of Arshdeep, who has been with the franchise for eight years, was difficult, the move was a strategic cricketing decision.
Wadia stated that the franchise views Pandya as a long-term investment to help the team win championships. He noted that Mumbai Indians were keen on acquiring the Indian pacer.
The trade comes as Mumbai Indians seek a new-ball partner for Jasprit Bumrah. Arshdeep Singh has taken 111 wickets in 96 matches for Punjab Kings since his debut in 2019.