'Need to find a replacement': Irfan flags PBKS' weak link after Hardik-Arshdeep trade

NewsSports NewsCricket News'Need to find a replacement': Irfan Pathan identifies Punjab Kings' weak link after blockbuster Hardik-Arshdeep exchange 'Need to find a replacement': Irfan Pathan identifies Punjab Kings' weak link after blockbuster Hardik-Arshdeep exchange Edited by Nitesh Dubey / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Nov 11, 2026, 15:47 IST The blockbuster trade between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) has triggered plenty of discussion around the possible playing combinations of both franchises ahead of IPL 2027.

While Punjab have strengthened their batting with the arrival of Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, they have also parted ways with one of their most dependable fast bowlers, Arshdeep Singh.Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has weighed in on the high-profile exchange, highlighting the benefits of Hardik's arrival for Punjab while raising concerns over their bowling resources following Arshdeep's departure.

Watch Matt Henry press conference: Injury updates in New Zealand camp, ODI plans & more Taking to X, Pathan pointed out that Hardik's addition would provide Punjab with a much-needed power-hitting option in the middle and lower order."With this trade of Hardik, Punjab get a really good middle and lower order power hitter.

Their batting line-up was already strong, but this makes them even stronger in that department."Their bowling is a real concern for me. They not only need to find a replacement for Arshdeep Singh but also need to invest in a good spinner going forward," Pathan wrote.

The trade sees Hardik return to a new franchise after his second stint with Mumbai Indians, while Arshdeep brings his seven-year association with Punjab Kings to an end. Hardik will join Punjab Kings for a fee of Rs 18 crore, up from his previous retention fee of Rs 16.35 crore.

Arshdeep, meanwhile, will move to Mumbai Indians at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore. Hardik's arrival adds considerable experience and firepower to Punjab's batting unit. The all-rounder has featured in 162 IPL matches, scoring 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 while picking up 82 wickets.However, Arshdeep's departure leaves a significant gap in Punjab's bowling attack.

The left-arm pacer was the franchise's leading wicket-taker, claiming 111 wickets in 96 IPL appearances. His ability to provide breakthroughs with the new ball and deliver at the death made him a crucial part of the team's bowling combination.Join conversation Will Hardik Pandya significantly improve Punjab's batting lineup?

Irfan Pathan explains how Arshdeep's arrival benefits Mumbai Indians Earlier, Pathan had also highlighted how the acquisition of Arshdeep could significantly strengthen Mumbai Indians' bowling attack."The trade of Arshdeep Singh makes Mumbai Indians a much stronger side.

It allows them to use Jasprit Bumrah even more effectively and also has a positive impact on their overseas slots," he wrote on X. Arshdeep's arrival gives Mumbai another reliable Indian fast-bowling option alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Deepak Chahar.

The five-time champions also have left-arm pacer Trent Boult and young Indian bowler Ashwani Kumar in their pace-bowling department. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app. Nitesh Dubey is a digital content producer at the Times of India with over two years of experience in sports journalism.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. Before joining TOI Online Sports Desk in March 2026, he was part of India News and Zee News. He has covered major sporting events, including ICC tournaments, IPL, Olympics and Tennis tournaments showcasing his passion for cricket and other sports.

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