Hardik Pandya‘s form has been terrible in IPL 2025. His move might have also caused some friction within the MI Camp. Here, we take a look at three franchises that can target Hardik Pandya if Mumbai Indians release him before IPL 2025.
It would not be a surprise if Mumbai Indians released Hardik Pandya before IPL 2025 Mega Auctions. Despite his poor form, a few teams might still want him on their squad.
1) Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings have some serious firepower in the lower middle-order. That said, they might still want that popular Indian cricketer around whom the squad can be built. The new home ground can be suitable for a player like Hardik Pandya. Since PBKS will be open for a new skipper, they might move for Hardik.
2) Royal Challengers Bengaluru can sign Hardik Pandya for IPL 2025 if Mumbai Indians release him
RCB is one of the franchises that can target Hardik Pandya if Mumbai Indians release him before IPL 2025. This franchise will be the ideal destination for Hardik Pandya. At Chinnaswamy, Hardik will get a real chance at getting his batting form back. Also, leading a side like RCB is as big as leading Mumbai Indians. Hence, for him, the challenge will be there while for the franchise, they would get a good all-rounder and a skipper.
3) Sunrisers Hyderabad
SRH could have some trouble in retaining players before the IPL 2025 Mega Auctions. If they are forced to release Pat Cummins, they could be on the lookout for another skipper. While Pat is attainable at the auctions, if Hardik is available, SRH could consider him because he is an Indian skipper and would also add balance to the team. It has been a while since SRH had a settled skipper. Hence, Hardik would solve these problems for them.
