Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia has revealed that other IPL franchises showed interest in signing Hardik Pandya before the all-rounder's move from Mumbai Indians was finalised. However, Punjab Kings remained firm on its plan to acquire the India star through a trade involving Arshdeep Singh, with both franchises eventually agreeing to the high-profile exchange ahead of IPL 2027.

Ness Wadia believes Hardik's experience and all-round ability can help Punjab Kings challenge for the title. He also made it clear that the franchise sees the all-rounder as a long-term addition rather than a one-season investment.

Hardik Pandya joins Punjab Kings as Arshdeep Singh moves to Mumbai Indians

The trade brings an end to Hardik's second stint with Mumbai Indians. He first joined the franchise in 2015 and became a key member of four IPL-winning campaigns in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. After seven seasons, he moved to Gujarat Titans in 2022 and captained them to the title in their debut campaign. GT reached another final in 2023 before Hardik returned to Mumbai in 2024 as captain.

His second spell with MI proved more challenging, and the franchise has now traded him to Punjab. Hardik will join PBKS for ₹18 crore, an increase from his previous ₹16.35 crore fee.

Arshdeep, meanwhile, leaves the franchise where he began his IPL career in 2019. The left-arm pacer has taken 111 wickets in 96 matches and became Punjab's leading wicket-taker. He moves to Mumbai at his existing fee of ₹18 crore, bringing his new-ball and death-over skills to the five-time champions.

There was competition, frankly, but that didn't bother us - Ness Wadia

Ness Wadia described Hardik as a proven match-winner whose experience could strengthen the Punjab dressing room. He also revealed that rival teams were interested, but Punjab had a clear condition for completing the deal.

"He is a world-class player. He has won several trophies, including the IPL and ICC titles. He is a premier all-rounder in the world and brings a lot of experience and wisdom. I think he will be a wonderful asset to the team and, along with (head coach) Ricky (Ponting), will inspire the team and add tremendous value," the Punjab Kings co-owner told Cricbuzz.

"There was competition, frankly, but that didn't bother us because we were very clear about what we wanted, and Mumbai were equally clear about what they wanted. Others did show interest, but we were very clear that Arshdeep would be involved only in a deal with Mumbai. I think it was the same with Mumbai. And, like I said, both franchises are happy."

Ness Wadia also confirmed that Punjab view the signing as a long-term move.

"Definitely long term. We all want to win championships, and I think Hardik will come in and help us achieve that goal. This is not a short-term thing; we are not just looking at one year."

Like I said, I think his experience is invaluable - Ness Wadia

Addressing concerns about Hardik Pandya's injury history, Ness Wadia backed the all-rounder's ability to make an impact with both bat and ball.

"Like I said, I think his experience is invaluable. He is one of the foremost players in T20 cricket. He is great in the field, brings tremendous energy, and we are keen to keep him. From his perspective too, he has had a difficult last couple of years with injuries and various other issues. I think you will see a reinvigorated Hardik Pandya."

Ness Wadia acknowledged that releasing Arshdeep was difficult, given his long association with Punjab. He stated:

"Very, very difficult. As I said, he is a family man, and he has only played with us. But listen, at the end of the day, he has achieved what he has, and we are just happy that he has reached the level he has. I am sure we wish him all happiness and success."