R Ashwin has described a trade taking Hardik Pandya from Mumbai Indians to Chennai Super Kings as a far-shot, and has named Rajasthan Royals as the franchise most likely to acquire the allrounder ahead of the IPL 2027 auction scheduled for December 2026.

Ashwin addressed the speculation surrounding a possible CSK move directly. Ashwin then pointed to a different destination, placing Rajasthan Royals ahead of other interested franchises in the race for Pandya's signature.

"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. From what I've heard, RR are at the top of the list in the Hardik trade," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Why is a CSK move considered unlikely for Hardik Pandya?

Zaheer Khan was appointed as Chennai Super Kings head coach in September 2026, replacing Stephen Fleming. Unresolved reports of a rift between Pandya and Zaheer, stemming from Zaheer's previous stint with Mumbai Indians management, have added uncertainty to any potential CSK move. The exact nature and timing of this reported rift remain unconfirmed and have been kept out of article prose accordingly.

Mumbai Indians had retained Pandya for Rs 16.35 crore ahead of IPL 2026, but the season proved difficult for both player and franchise. Pandya managed 206 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 138.25, along with four wickets. For context, he had scored 224 runs and taken 14 wickets in IPL 2025, making his 2026 returns a step down across both departments.

Mumbai Indians won only four of their 14 league games and finished ninth in IPL 2026. The club then confirmed the departure of head coach Mahela Jayawardene on October 16, 2026, adding further uncertainty to the franchise's direction as the retention deadline of November 15, 2026 approaches.

Which other franchises have been linked with Hardik Pandya?

Beyond Rajasthan Royals, at least two other franchises have been connected with Pandya ahead of the retention window. Kolkata Knight Riders have been linked with him as they seek a new captain following Ajinkya Rahane's retirement. A third franchise, Lucknow Super Giants, has also been reported to have an interest in the allrounder, though no formal offer from any club has been confirmed.

With retention lists due on November 15, 2026 and the IPL 2027 auction set for December 2026, franchises have a narrow window to finalise their strategies. The coming weeks are expected to clarify the situation around one of the most high-profile potential trades of the IPL 2027 cycle.