Mumbai Indians finished ninth in this season’s IPL. After such a poor performance, Hardik Pandya’s leadership is under scrutiny. It is even believed that Hardik might leave Mumbai Indians. If so, what is his next destination? Many think it could be Chennai Super Kings. Among them is former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin. His post on social media has led many to believe that CSK might make a move for Hardik.

On X handle, someone asked, ‘If Matheesha Pathirana is released, should CSK go for him?’ Sharing that post, Ashwin gave a suggestive message. He wrote, ‘Pathirana, 07:07 and Stokes.’ What does it mean? Ashwin provided an explanation. He checked ‘Opening’, meaning Chennai’s opening pair is perfectly fine. Then he wrote ‘Dube and 07:07 Middle Order/Finishing check’ and ‘Overton and Stokes balance check.’

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That means if Overton and Stokes come, the team will have balance. Dube will be in the middle order, and ’07:07′ is needed for finishing. Who is this ’07:07′? Netizens speculate it is Hardik Pandya. But the number ‘7’ is usually associated with Dhoni. Why is Hardik’s name being linked to it? Actually, a day earlier, Hardik posted an Instagram story. In it, while watching a movie on a laptop, the time on his phone was seen as ’07:07′. That is, Hardik himself seemed to hint at the possibility of joining Dhoni’s team. Ashwin then reinforced that message.

🚨 Hardik Pandya and CSK trade deal:

Yesterday, Hardik Pandya posted an Instagram story where his phone time was seen as 07:07.

Today, Ravichandran Ashwin tweeted mentioning Pathirana, 07:07, and Ben Stokes as likely players CSK could target next season.

Notably, since the change of leadership from the Hitman, the five-time IPL champions have not regained their previous rhythm. Hardik has suffered from a lack of consistency. In 2024, under his leadership, Mumbai won four out of 14 matches, a win percentage of 28.5 percent. In 2025, despite winning nine out of 16 matches, Mumbai failed to reach the finals. Disappointment continued this season as well. Leading Mumbai in 10 matches, he managed only two wins. Overall, his leadership is under the microscope.

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Mumbai

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is a major port city on the west coast of India and the financial and entertainment capital of the country. Originally a group of seven islands inhabited by fishing communities, it was ceded to the British East India Company in 1661 and rapidly developed into a bustling trade hub. Today, it is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Bollywood film industry, and vibrant, diverse culture.

Chennai

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is a major cultural and economic hub on India’s southeastern coast. Founded in 1639 by the British East India Company around the Fort St. George settlement, it served as a key colonial administrative center before becoming the capital of Tamil Nadu. Today, it is renowned for its classical music and dance traditions, vibrant temple architecture, and as a gateway to South Indian heritage.

IPL

The IPL, or Indian Premier League, is a professional Twenty20 cricket league in India, founded in 2008 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). It quickly became one of the most popular and wealthiest sports leagues globally, known for its high-energy matches, celebrity team owners, and blend of international and domestic players. The league has significantly influenced modern cricket by popularizing the T20 format and creating a lucrative platform for emerging talent.