Hardik Pandya set to join new IPL team in 2026

There is always speculation on Hardik Pandya and his franchise ahead of any season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). In his career, the all-rounder has featured in two franchises, the Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians. If his social media posts are to be believed, then the inclusion of a new franchise can’t be eliminated. The all-rounder is always an important aspect on any side. 

Hardik Pandya has overall smashed 2749 runs in 140 innings at an average of 28.34 and a strike rate of 146.92 with the help of 10 half-centuries at the best score of 91 runs. With the ball, the right-arm pacer collected 78 wickets in 107 innings at an average of 31.94 and a strike rate of 20.8. In the last IPL season, he cracked 224 runs at a strike rate of 163.50 and picked up 14 wickets at 24.42.

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Hardik has posted his picture, which suggests that he could feature in a new franchise for the upcoming IPL. He appeared to be coming out of a yellow car while he had put a yellow love sign. The fans reckoned that the veteran could join the Chennai Super Kings for the IPL 2026.

Hardik Pandya to join Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026? Cryptic post sparks speculation

The Super Kings didn’t enjoy a great last season when they finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time in their history. MS Dhoni, the five-time IPL-winning captain, led the franchise after the first couple of weeks when their appointed leader, Ruturaj Gaikwad, was ruled out of the competition due to injury.

If Hardik comes into the Super Kings, then it will bring a different balance for the franchise, besides opening up another option for the captaincy. The news has got life, especially due to the close relationship of the veteran with Dhoni on and off the field.

As of now, Hardik is injured and missed the final of the Asia Cup 2025 against Pakistan in Dubai. The severe injury has also kept him out of the three-match ODI series and five-match T20I series against Australia down under, starting next week. If he recovers well in time, then he could return for the home South Africa series.