There has been growing pressure on Hardik Pandya, with Mumbai Indians performing underwhelmingly in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). The team is already out of the playoff contention, having suffered nine defeats in 13 matches. When Hardik made his much-discussed return to Mumbai Indians ahead of the 2024 IPL season, there were huge expectations because the franchise not only welcomed back one of their former stars but also handed him the captaincy, replacing long-time leader Rohit Sharma. 

However, the results over the next three seasons have been depressing. Hardik’s leadership stint has been rife with inconsistency and disappointing performances. Under his captaincy, MI have struggled to put up match-winning performances. In IPL 2026 as well, MI's campaign has been disappointing, with the team currently placed ninth on the table.

Meanwhile, former England captain Michael Vaughan believes that the partnership between Hardik and Mumbai Indians may no longer be working. Vaughan suggested that both the player and franchise could benefit from moving in different directions. Vaughan also asserted that MI should release Hardik Pandya and bring in KKR all-rounder Cameron Green.

"No. I have seen enough. I didn't really see the dynamic of bringing him back. He was doing well with the Gujarat Titans, won a title there with a different set of players and a different coach. I feel Mumbai have got too many chefs in the kitchen," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz.

Michael Vaughan further suggested that if Hardik Pandya is keen on captaining an IPL side, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders could work out a Hardik-Green swap deal.

"If he wants to carry on as captain, then he'd better be with a fresh set of captains. Maybe KKR. Kolkata will be looking for a new captain. That is why the Green-Hardik swap," he said.