Dubai: Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani has broken his silence on the decision to trade Hardik Pandya to Punjab Kings, with India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh moving in the opposite direction ahead of the IPL 2027 season.

In a statement released by Reliance Industries Limited on X on Wednesday, Mumbai Indians confirmed the high-profile exchange, with Ambani paying tribute to Pandya while welcoming Arshdeep to the franchise.

“Hardik has shared some very special moments with Mumbai Indians. We have seen him grow as a cricketer, make his mark on the world stage and then return to lead the team,” Ambani said.

“His contribution, his energy and the competitive spirit he brings to the field have been valuable to Mumbai Indians. I have great respect for him, both as a cricketer and as a person, and wish him nothing but the very best for everything that lies ahead.”

Pandya first joined Mumbai Indians as a young cricketer in 2015 and developed into one of the leading all-rounders in world cricket.…