Former Team India and Chennai Super Kings spinner Ravichandran Ashwin addressed the possible trade move involving Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2027 players' auction.

According to several reports, Chennai Super Kings were in a strong position to secure the services of the pace-bowling all-rounder. Despite the rumours around Hardik Pandya and Chennai Super Kings, Ashwin shared different opinions in his YouTube video.

Will Hardik Pandya move to Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2027?

Previously shared reports across social media platforms hinted that the former India and CSK captain MS Dhoni could convince Hardik Pandya to join them ahead of the IPL 2027 season.

But the equation between the pace bowling all-rounder and the Chennai-based franchise has reportedly taken a drastic turn after the appointment of Zaheer Khan as CSK's head coach, replacing Stephen Fleming.

Ravichandran Ashwin on Hardik Pandya's potential move to CSK

While Zaheer Khan was with the Mumbai Indians, his relationship with the all-rounder was not on good terms; therefore, a trade deal between CSK and MI for Hardik is unlikely to happen. Ravichandran Ashwin expressed that Hardik's move from MI to Chennai Super Kings is far from reality.

"There have been conversations that Dhoni will personally convince Hardik Pandya to come to CSK. It will be a great addition for CSK. But in my opinion, it is a real long shot," said Ashwin.

According to several other reports, talks between the two franchises are expected to gain a renewed pace in the next month as the new coaching set-up of the Super Kings will be around several other new faces, not only Zaheer Khan.

With the inclusion of other back-office staff, the relationship between Zaheer Khan and Hardik, which is reportedly not in good terms, could get some boost after the appointment of Zaheer's helping hands, and obviously the influence of MS Dhoni.

Rajasthan Royals are at the top of the list in the Hardik Pandya trade

Though Ravichandran Ashwin did not predict anything like that. He, however, saw that another Indian Premier League franchise, Rajasthan Royals, is in the top position to get Hardik in their team.

"From what I've heard, RR are at the top of the list in the Hardik trade," the former cricketer added.

The equation inside the Mumbai Indians camp is likely to be changed as they are also on the way to establish a fresh coaching set-up. On Saturday, October 17, the franchise announced the departure of Mahela Jayawardene. They will have to appoint a new head coach soon.

MI will have to make a final call on the appointment of their new head coach as the players' auction approaches. It will be interesting to see Hardik's position in the team after the appointment of the new head coach.