After the much-deliberated Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians got finalised, Ness Wadia, the co-owner of the Punjab franchise, weighed in on the high profile move in a conversation with Cricbuzz. Excerpts from the interview:

What can you tell us about Hardik Pandya, the player? What is PBKSs perception? And why Hardik?

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.

When did the idea of trading Hardik Pandya for Arshdeep Singh first come up, and how long did it take for the two franchises to reach an agreement?

Plus or minus a month, perhaps three weeks or a month. I think, from our perspective, it's almost a month now and we see it as a win. We are happy, and Mumbai, from their perspective, are happy too. Most importantly, while it is sad for us to let Arshdeep go, we are very happy that he has been with us over the last eight years. We have seen him grow from a boy into a leading cricketer, both for our franchise and the nation. We are very happy with all that he has achieved, and I am sure he will achieve even more.

Was there competition from other franchises for Hardik? How difficult was it for PBKS to get this deal across the line?

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.

Given Hardik's recent injury history and the time he has spent away from action, what gives you confidence that he is the right player for PBKS at this stage?

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.

The bowlers are important, but look at the scores — 250, 260, 270. You need all-rounders, you need people who can take charge of a game, and he brings so much to us in the lower order as well. He brings that confidence, which will help the rest of the team relax and take some of the pressure off them.

Arshdeep has been a key part of Punjab's bowling attack for several seasons. How difficult was the decision to let go of a player who has come through the franchise and established himself as an India regular?

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. What can I say? Nothing would make us happier. Even though he is going to another franchise, we will always be happy to see him perform.

With this trade significantly changing your squad composition and purse, how does it alter PBKS's plans and priorities for the upcoming auction?

We felt that having Hardik would bring the edge we needed. I think we will now go into the auction and see what needs to be done. We are quite confident that we have good bowlers and a good team. I think his presence will make the team more confident and relaxed in all aspects. Don't forget Hardik bowls over 140 kmph and is very well respected in all aspects of the game.

Is it for a short-term plan or a long-term acquisition?

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.

Now you have two giants in the side – Shreyas Iyer and Hardik. How does the dynamics of the side change?

I think we are just lucky to have two world-class players who have captained the nation, continue to play for the nation and have done so well. We are fortunate to have both of them.

Fair to say it was done at the highest levels involving the promoters?

Everyone has played their part, and I think the promoters played their part as well.

You being the main person?

No, I don't think anyone is the main person. I think everyone has their role, and we are just happy that everything has been done. Like I said, we are happy for Mumbai, and Mumbai is happy for us.

Are there any more trades in the pipeline for PBKS?

You never know with the IPL. Everything happens at the last minute. I don't know what will happen, but let's see. We now have to look at what needs to be done, who to retain and so on.

Are you engaged with any other franchises for trades?

Nothing concrete at the moment. I mean, there are talks that keep happening, but nothing has taken shape yet.