Reports: KKR re-enter Hardik Pandya trade talks after Rahane retirement leaves leadership vacuum at franchise

Kolkata Knight Riders have renewed their interest in trading Hardik Pandya from Mumbai Indians ahead of the November 15 retention deadline, with the franchise now facing a leadership vacuum following Ajinkya Rahane's retirement. Sources indicate that KKR are now considered frontrunners, with a 75 per cent likelihood of signing Pandya for IPL 2027, making them the most serious suitor among the franchises in the running. Pandya's second stint at Mumbai Indians proved deeply troubled.