Goa, Nov. 11 -- Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has shared his analysis of the high-profile IPL 2027 trade between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). While acknowledging that all-rounder Hardik Pandya will significantly bolster Punjab's middle- and lower-order power-hitting, Pathan warned that losing pace spearhead Arshdeep Singh creates a severe vulnerability in PBKS's bowling setup.

The franchise swap, formally announced on Wednesday, sends Pandya to Punjab Kings while left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh joins Mumbai Indians.

"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," Pathan not...