"Don't Know How He Played For India": Kris Srikkanth Questions Punjab Kings Star's Promotion

IPL 2027 trade rumours took an unexpected turn after reports emerged suggesting that Hardik Pandya could be traded to Punjab Kings (PBKS). Several reports have claimed that the Mumbai Indians captain and star all-rounder is set to be exchanged for pacer Arshdeep Singh. While there has been no official confirmation regarding the blockbuster move, former India opener Kris Srikkanth praised PBKS for pursuing the deal, saying the franchise would benefit immensely from the inclusion of Hardik, given his value as an all-rounder.

However, Srikkanth also criticised young all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, questioning his bowling credentials. He even expressed surprise over Shedge's selection for the Indian team.

"This trade will definitely benefit Punjab more than Mumbai. With Hardik, they'll have so many all-rounders, even though I won't accept Shedge as an all-rounder despite him playing for India. I don't know how he played for India. But overall, it's a big plus for PBKS. Yes, MI will also benefit with Arshdeep replacing Boult. Also, now MI will start playing as a team. Rohit will surely be the captain," said Srikkanth on his YouTube channel, Cheeky Cheeka.

"But there is no chance for Hardik to become PBKS captain. Shreyas Iyer will definitely be the captain 100%. Ponting bought Iyer only because he wanted him to captain. So there is no scope for Hardik to become PBKS captain. And if they make Hardik the captain, they'll fall apart, and there will only be conflicts, as was the case in MI," he added.

Srikkanth further predicted that PBKS could release Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis and look to sign another pacer at the auction. He also suggested that if Arshdeep joins the Mumbai Indians setup, the franchise may have to part ways with Deepak Chahar.

"PBKS will also give away Stoinis and get another pacer from outside. So this is definitely a better trade for PBKS. They didn't have a middle-order batter who can smash it. They were playing with Shedge half the season. So now with Hardik replacing him, they'll be even stronger. Of course, with Arshdeep, MI should also let go of Deepak Chahar and not foolishly retain him," said Srikkanth.

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