Table of Contents
Arshdeep Singh is set to begin a new chapter in the Indian Premier League after his reported move from Punjab Kings to Mumbai Indians as part of a major trade involving Hardik Pandya. The development has now received further confirmation from Arshdeep's father, Darshan Singh, who revealed that the family has received information about the pacer's switch.
The proposed exchange is among the biggest player trades ahead of IPL 2027, bringing an end to Arshdeep Singh's long association with Punjab Kings while sending Hardik back to a new franchise. Although the formal announcement from the BCCI is awaited, Darshan's comments suggest that the move has progressed to its final stage.
Arshdeep Singh-Hardik Pandya trade: One of most shocking deals in IPL history
Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings have reportedly completed the process for a straight swap involving two established India internationals. Hardik is expected to join Punjab, while Arshdeep will move to Mumbai ahead of the IPL 2027 season.
The proposed deal attracted considerable attention because both players have been important figures for their respective franchises. Hardik returned to Mumbai in 2024 and captained the five-time champions for three seasons. Arshdeep Singh, meanwhile, developed into one of India's leading left-arm fast bowlers during his time with Punjab.
A PTI report on November 7 stated that the trade had been completed, citing an IPL source, although it still requires BCCI ratification before becoming officially confirmed. The move would also see Hardik join Punjab under Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to continue as captain.
We also found out surprisingly that the trade has happened - Arshdeep Singh's father on son's Mumbai Indians move
Darshan Singh has spoken about the unexpected development. In a conversation with journalist Vimal Kumar, he revealed that the family had not been involved in any earlier discussion about the proposed transfer.
Darshan explained that they were also surprised to learn about the trade and had subsequently received an official communication regarding Arshdeep's move. He admitted that leaving Punjab Kings would naturally bring some emotions because of the pacer's long association with the franchise.
When asked whether Arshdeep had been informed about the possibility beforehand, his father replied:
"No, there was no such discussion. We also found out surprisingly that the trade has happened. I think the official intimation has probably come now that he has been traded, yes. But, you know how it is... wherever a person is born, they always have a special love for their native place, and they never forget it their whole life. So, Kings XI Punjab was like a native place for him; there was a very strong connection with them. So, you do feel a little emotional about it.
"But since every franchise wants to build its own team balance, they traded him accordingly. We are very happy with Mumbai Indians as well. Over there, his old captain and old teammates like Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and others are there, so we are very happy."
They are very happy that it will be a great bowling attack - Arshdeep Singh's father on Mumbai Indians bowling unit
Darshan also expressed excitement about seeing his son become part of Mumbai's bowling attack. The franchise already has Jasprit Bumrah and several experienced options, and Arshdeep's arrival could give them another specialist fast bowler capable of handling different phases of an innings.
He acknowledged the positive reaction from supporters but also pointed out that IPL conditions and batting-friendly pitches can make even strong bowling combinations vulnerable.
"What can I say? Just look at the fans' reactions and remarks. They are very happy that it will be a great bowling attack, and they will tackle any score. They won't even let teams cross 200 runs. But again, it's IPL with flat pitches, so anything can happen there; that's a different matter. But indeed, it's a great partnership," Arshdeep Singh's father said in the video.
Also Read: IPL set for expansion to 12 teams in 2028, Pune and Vadodara among likely destinations
