Kolkata Knight Riders eye Hardik Pandya in IPL trade

Speculation is intensifying around a potential high-profile trade involving Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League season, with the Kolkata Knight Riders emerging as a leading contender for the star all-rounder. The IPL trade window is now open, and multiple reports indicate that KKR's ownership, including co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, is personally keen on acquiring Pandya to revitalize the franchise after two disappointing campaigns.

The interest follows a difficult 2026 season for both Pandya and the Mumbai Indians. The five-time champions finished ninth in the table with only four wins, and Pandya's individual performance was below his usual standards. In 10 matches, he scored 206 runs at a strike rate of 138.26 and took only four wickets. This has reportedly led Mumbai's management to consider a significant squad overhaul, potentially moving forward without Pandya as captain or even as a player.

Kolkata Knight Riders, who last won the title in 2024 and have missed the playoffs for the past two seasons, are seen as needing a proven Indian star and leader to build around. Reports suggest the franchise views Pandya, a key figure in India's...