Aakash Chopra explains why Mumbai Indians can manage without Hardik Pandya ahead of IPL 2027

Former India opener Aakash Chopra stated that Mumbai Indians can comfortably manage without all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2027 season. Amid rumors of a potential trade sending Pandya to Punjab Kings in exchange for pacer Arshdeep Singh, Chopra argued on his YouTube channel that Mumbai possesses sufficient batting depth to absorb his departure. He highlighted England all-rounder Will Jacks as a capable option to balance the playing eleven alongside core batters like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav.

In addition to the Pandya situation, Chopra advised Mumbai Indians on potential squad adjustments ahead of the upcoming campaign. He recommended releasing experienced fast bowler Trent Boult, citing poor returns of two wickets across five matches at an economy rate of 11.5 during the 2026 season. Chopra noted that freeing up Boult's 12.5 crore salary would provide valuable auction flexibility, while also suggesting the franchise choose between spinners Keshav Maharaj and Mitchell Santner.