The Indian Premier League (IPL) team Mumbai Indians (MI) suddenly released Hardik Pandya ahead of the blockbuster IPL auction. MI elected to keep skipper Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, and Suryakumar Yadav despite the absence of Hardik Pandya.
The main reason why the Mumbai Indians did not re-sign Hardik Pandya:
Many experts expected that Hardik Pandya would be released this year even before the retention list was released. Hardik was a key team member in the IPL 2020, but he struggled in the IPL 2021. 
Another factor to consider is that Hardik Pandya, who previously bowled four overs at a medium speed, could not bowl at all during IPL 2021 due to injury concerns. These on-field and off-field concerns could be primary reasons why the Mumbai Indians released Hardik Pandya.
While the Mumbai Indians may re-hire Hardik, there will undoubtedly be stiff competition for the player with outstanding finishing ability and extensive T20 experience.