During the post match presentation , Hardik Pandya revealed what he said to Shardul Thakur. In Indian Premier League 2026 season, Hardik Pandya made a strong statement about teammate Shardul Thakur, suggesting that the all-rounder should settle down with the Mumbai Indians for the long term.
Speaking after Mumbai Indians’ recent victory, Hardik revealed that he had jokingly told Shardul, “Enough of franchise hopping. Come stay with Mumbai Indians for the rest of your career.” The remark quickly caught attention among fans, especially given Shardul’s IPL journey, which has seen him represent multiple franchises over the years.
Shardul Thakur has been one of the most dependable seam-bowling all-rounders in the league. From delivering crucial breakthroughs to contributing handy runs lower down the order, his ability to impact games has made him a valuable asset for every team he has played for. However, his frequent team changes have also made him one of the most travelled players in IPL history.
Hardik Pandya’s statement reflects not just camaraderie but also the team environment that Mumbai Indians are trying to build this season. Known for their strong core and long-term player backing, Mumbai Indians have historically invested in players and nurtured them into match-winners. Hardik himself is a product of that system, having risen through the ranks before taking on leadership responsibilities.
With players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah forming the backbone of the team, adding a consistent performer like Shardul to that core could strengthen the franchise even further. His experience and versatility make him an ideal fit for Mumbai’s high-pressure matches.
As IPL 2026 progresses, fans will be keen to see whether this light-hearted suggestion turns into a long-term reality. If Shardul Thakur does settle with Mumbai Indians, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter for both the player and the franchise.
