Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their upcoming IPL 2026 clash on Thursday, May 14 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in Dharamshala. The Mumbai-based side have endured a horrible season under Hardik Pandya's leadership and became the second side to officially get eliminated in the ongoing competition.
Kris Srikkanth makes big claim on Hardik Pandya's future
Ahead of their clash against PBKS, former India selector Kris Srikkanth has made a big claim on Pandya's future at MI after the conclusion of the ongoing season.
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Talking on his official YouTube Channel, Srikkanth said that there is a high possibility that Hardik Pandya might get released by the franchise, as it seems that MI has already informed him about their decision.
"Looks like there’s no news, no official update from anyone. It feels like they’ve basically said, ‘You’re not needed anymore, you can leave.’ In fact, you heard Hardik’s comments too. Either they will release him, or they’ll just say, ‘Thanks bro, thanks for everything,’ and move on," said Srikkanth.
However there is no clarity if Hardik will enter the auction or get traded after the season comes to an end.
"Then the question becomes — where will he go next year? Will he be traded or go into the auction? Srikkanth added.
Hardik Pandya's torrid IPL campaign
In the ongoing season, MI skipper Hardik Pandya has failed to lead from the front by setting examples, scoring only 146 runs in eight games at an average of 18.25 with an underwhelming strike rate of 136.45. His struggle with the ball was evident as well, clinching only four wickets at an economy rate of 12.06.