3 reasons why Hardik Pandya joining PBKS could help them win their maiden IPL title

Punjab Kings have never lifted the IPL trophy, and a potential trade that sends Hardik Pandya to their camp, and Arshdeep Singh going the other way, could change the equation heading into IPL 2027. Reports from November 7, 2026 indicate that Mumbai Indians and PBKS have placed expressions of interest with the IPL, with both franchises having submitted the necessary paperwork and both players giving their consent, though formal BCCI ratification is still pending.

Sources indicate that Hardik is comfortable with the prospect of playing under PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to retain the leadership role. Hardik himself had informed Mumbai Indians of his desire to be released after discussions that stretched through the latter part of IPL 2026.

Here are three reasons why Hardik Pandya joining PBKS could help them win their maiden IPL title

1. A true finisher in the death overs

Across 162 IPL matches, Hardik Pandya has accumulated 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.29, hitting 155 sixes along the way. Those numbers reflect a batter whose value peaks in the final five to eight overs, precisely the phase where Punjab have historically struggled to accelerate.

His arrival at PBKS would give the side the flexibility to build specialist roles around him, rather than asking a lower-order batter at No. 6 or No. 7 to manufacture runs in an unnatural manner when the required rate climbs. Punjab's middle order would benefit from having a designated power-hitter who can absorb pressure and still score at that rate, without the rest of the batting unit needing to overreach their natural game.