{
  "id": 15369758,
  "title": "‘RR are at the top of the list’: Ashwin makes big revelation on Hardik Pandya trade",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/rr-are-at-the-top-of-the-list-ashwin-makes-big-revelation-on-hardik",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-18T07:11:45.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/rr-are-at-the-top-of-the-list-ashwin-makes-big-revelation-on-hardik-pandya-trade/articleshow/135025373.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Speculation surrounding Hardik Pandya's future with Mumbai Indians has escalated, with former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin commenting on reports suggesting a potential trade to Chennai Super Kings. Social media buzz has connected CSK's MS Dhoni to personally attempt to sway Hardik to join the Chennai side, although Ashwin remains skeptical about the likelihood of such a deal. Addressing his YouTube audience, the spinner acknowledged the benefits of having Hardik in CSK's lineup but firmly stated the move is a \"real far-shot.\" Ashwin then added that Rajasthan Royals might be the frontrunner if any trade were to happen, hinting at CSK's less favorable position in the negotiations. This comes as Mumbai Indians prepare for a significant coaching change, with Mahela Jayawardene stepping down after two seasons. The departure of the former Sri Lankan cricketer, who guided MI to three IPL titles, leaves the franchise in search of a new leader ahead of the November 15 IPL retention deadline.",
  "summary": "With the IPL season looming, the chatter about Hardik Pandya's future at Mumbai Indians is heating up. Renowned former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that a move to Chennai Super Kings could be advantageous for CSK, though he doubts its likelihood anytime soon. Ashwin sees Rajasthan Royals as a more realistic contender for Hardik's next signing. Additionally, Mumbai Indians face a…",
  "key_points": [
    "Ravichandran Ashwin comments on Hardik Pandya trade rumors.",
    "Chennai Super Kings potentially top trade destination.",
    "Rajasthan Royals seen as frontrunner if trade occurs."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The potential movement of Hardik Pandya signals a period of instability for Mumbai Indians as they face both coaching transitions and the looming deadline for player retentions.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Yahoo Sports",
        "title": "Not CSK: R Ashwin reveals Hardik Pandya's next IPL franchise as he rules out chances of joining Chennai Super Kings",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/not-csk-r-ashwin-reveals-hardik-pandyas-next-ipl-franchise-as-he",
        "published": "2026-10-18T07:43:50.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}