Punjab Kings, who finished as runners-up in TATA IPL 2025, missed out on a playoff spot in the following season and will be keen to bounce back in the 20th edition of the tournament. Ahead of the TATA IPL 2027 retentions, speculation surrounding a potential trade between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings involving Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh has generated considerable interest.

Speaking on JioStar's Game Plan, JioStar experts Abhinav Mukund and Aakash Chopra discussed the possible implications of the proposed trade, Punjab Kings' bowling concerns and another potential deal involving Gujarat Titans (GT) that could benefit both franchises.

What did Abhinav Mukund say about the potential Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh trade?

Abhinav Mukund shared his assessment of the proposed swap between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings, highlighting how the move could affect the balance and leadership dynamics of the Punjab-based franchise.

He pointed out that Punjab had invested heavily in building its core during the previous mega auction, spending significant amounts on Arshdeep Singh, Shreyas Iyer and Yuzvendra Chahal. Mukund questioned whether the franchise was reconsidering its existing combination and explained how Pandya's arrival could create questions about his role under Iyer's leadership.

"It is very interesting because when you look back at the mega auction, they chose to spend a bulk of their money on three big players like Arshdeep, Shreyas and Chahal. So, if you don't have faith in that core and want a better core to be retained, that's where the all-rounder question comes in. So, if you go with the speculation, obviously, it's a fact that Arshdeep Singh has been offered for Hardik Pandya. It's a great deal for Mumbai, but it's also a questionable deal for Punjab Kings because if Hardik comes to Punjab, does he play as just an all-rounder? Because I would think that he would play under Shreyas Iyer. So, there is that team dynamics question as well. Once again, is he okay with it? Has Shreyas had conversations about it? These are all things done behind closed doors. But, to be fair, that does a lot to the makeup of that side, and I have a feeling that they will definitely let go of Marcus Stoinis if he comes in."

What did Mukund say about Punjab Kings' potential trade with LSG?

Apart from the proposed Hardik Pandya-Arshdeep Singh swap, Mukund also discussed Punjab Kings' reported interest in strengthening their pace-bowling department through a potential trade with Lucknow Super Giants.

He mentioned that Marcus Stoinis could be on his way out, while LSG pacer Mohsin Khan has reportedly emerged as a possible trade option. However, Mukund raised concerns about Mohsin's fitness record and suggested that Mohammed Shami could be a better alternative for Punjab.

"The rumour mill that we have is saying that Marcus Stoinis could be traded and Mohsin Khan is what we're hearing could be up for trade from LSG. But again, Mohsin's fitness has been a concern. He's never been fit for an entire season apart from the first one, probably. In his place, Shami could actually be a good trade, back to Punjab. LSG could do without Shami because they have multiple pace bowlers.”

What did Mukund say about Suryansh Shedge's future at Punjab Kings?

Mukund also discussed the possible impact of the Hardik Pandya trade on young all-rounder Suryansh Shedge. He pointed out that Punjab already have several all-rounders in their squad and suggested that Pandya's arrival could affect the opportunities available to the youngster.

Shedge has been making progress in his career and has also represented India A. Mukund highlighted his growing reputation as an all-rounder and questioned how the potential trade could influence his place in Punjab's plans going forward.

"You are playing with a bunch of all-rounders in an Impact Player game and not as many specialist bowlers. We'll have to wait and see what happens with these trades. Because if Hardik's trade happens, I'm very curious to see how Suryansh would react. This is a guy who's now playing for India A as an all-rounder, playing for India as an all-rounder, and is looked at as the next in line after maybe Nitish Reddy, Shivam Dube and then him. So, clearly, he must be thinking about whether he would get as many opportunities, if that trade does happen."