Mumbai: Mumbai Indians (MI) co-owner Akash Ambani has wished star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya success following his high-profile exit from the franchise, praising his contribution, energy, and competitive spirit in the five-time champions' success over the years.

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The statement comes as the much-anticipated player trade between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings (PBKS) was finalised. The deal sees Pandya move to PBKS for Rs 18 crore—an increase from his previous fee of Rs 16.35 crore—while PBKS' homegrown left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh moves to Mumbai at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore.

Reflecting on Pandya's tenure, Akash Ambani said in an official statement:

"Hardik has shared some very special moments with Mumbai Indians. We have seen him grow as a cricketer, make his mark on the world stage and then return to lead the team. His contribution, his energy and the competitive spirit he brings to the field have been valuable to Mumbai Indians. I have great respect for him, both as a cricketer and as a person, and wish him nothing but the very best for everything that lies ahead."

Arrival of Arshdeep Singh

Welcoming India’s leading T20I wicket-taker to the squad, Ambani emphasised the strategic depth the left-arm bowler brings to the lineup.

"Arshdeep's arrival adds an exciting dimension to our bowling attack. We are always looking to build a team with the right balance of experience, skill and hunger to compete and Arshdeep brings all of these qualities. We welcome him along with the MI Paltan as he takes the field in Blue and Gold," he said.

Arshdeep leaves PBKS as their all-time leading wicket-taker with 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches since his debut in 2019. Known for his lethal execution with the new ball and at the death, he took 21 wickets in the 2025 season and followed with 14 wickets in 2026.

End of Pandya's Second MI Stint

The trade concludes Pandya’s second stint with Mumbai Indians, where he originally debuted in 2015 and played a pivotal role in four title-winning campaigns (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020).

After leading Gujarat Titans (GT) to an IPL championship in 2022 and a runner-up finish in 2023, Pandya returned to captain MI in 2024. Across 162 total IPL matches, he has amassed 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 and taken 82 wickets.

However, his recent three-season return to Mumbai proved challenging. Pandya managed 647 runs in 39 matches at an average of 21.53, alongside 29 wickets at an average over 34. Under his leadership, MI qualified for the playoffs in 2025, but suffered lower-table finishes in 2024 and 2026. (ANI)