Releasing Arshdeep Singh was tough, but Hardik Pandya trade was worth it says PBKS co-owner Ness Wadia

Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia has described the decision to part ways with Arshdeep Singh as an emotional one, while maintaining that the swap deal that brought Hardik Pandya to the franchise ahead of IPL 2027 was the right call for the team. The trade, completed on November 11, 2026, saw Arshdeep move to Mumbai Indians and Hardik head in the opposite direction, with Punjab Kings paying an existing fee of ₹18 crore for Arshdeep and Mumbai Indians trading Hardik across.

Arshdeep had spent eight seasons with Punjab Kings since making his IPL debut for the franchise in 2019, and Wadia acknowledged the weight of that history. Arshdeep is currently India's leading wicket-taker in T20 Internationals, a status that underlines just how significant his departure is for the franchise. Wadia was equally clear that the arrival of Hardik represented a genuine opportunity.

"I am sad that he is leaving after eight years, but one has to be happy that one has seen someone grow, evolve, succeed and move on to greater pastures in life. At the end of the day, everyone wants to be respected, loved and appreciated. As I told Hardik, this is your home. This is where we want you to be for many more years. We are not looking at just one year. At the end of the day, this is your franchise and your team. He was excited, and so are we," Wadia told India Today.

Why did Punjab Kings pursue the Hardik Pandya trade?

Punjab Kings went into the deal with a clear sense of purpose, and Wadia's comments suggest the franchise was confident the move suited both parties. Hardik had served as Mumbai Indians captain during the 2024 IPL season, a campaign in which Mumbai finished last with only four wins from 14 matches. The change of environment appeared to appeal to Hardik, and Wadia indicated that conversations with the allrounder left him reassured about his commitment to the Punjab setup.

Across 162 IPL appearances, Hardik has accumulated 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 and has also claimed 82 wickets, making him one of the more complete match-winners available in the league. Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer was also consulted on the move, and Wadia confirmed his approval. Head coach Ricky Ponting, who has previously worked with Hardik, was another factor in the franchise's thinking.

"I am very happy for him because, at the end of the day, this shows his tremendous value. One of the best and most successful franchises in the league wanted him. We were fortunate enough to meet and get Hardik as well, so I wish Arshdeep all the best. I am sure he will do very well for Mumbai, and I am happy for him. I think everyone is happy with the deal. Mumbai are happy, we are happy, and our captain Shreyas is happy. Ricky Ponting and Hardik have worked together in the past. Overall, I think it is a win-win for both franchises," Wadia said.