India captain Shubman Gill says Hardik Pandya is expected to play domestic cricket before returning to the national side. The all-rounder has been sidelined since the IPL and is recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Ravichandran Ashwin believes Mumbai Indians would want CSK youngster Ayush Mhatre included in any deal for Hardik Pandya, while outlining alternative player packages involving Shivam Dube and Nathan Ellis.
Rohit Sharma has reportedly agreed to return as Mumbai Indians captain for IPL 2027 after initially suggesting Tilak Varma for the role. Hardik Pandya is understood to be willing to play under Rohit if a proposed trade does not happen, according to The Indian Express.
Chennai Super Kings are overhauling their support staff under Zaheer Khan, with Mohit Sharma and Gareth Batty linked to new roles. Albie Morkel speculation and player-trade chatter remain separate from confirmed appointments.
Gautam Gambhir is using Naman Dhir, Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy to share parts of Hardik Pandya’s all-round role, a practical solution as India manage the star’s fitness and squad balance.
Former selector S Sharath says Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain important to India’s team environment, while stressing that selection must balance individual roles, conditions and overall team composition.
