Mumbai Indians (MI) have suffered a major setback ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Raipur. Uncertainty continues to surround captain Hardik Pandya, who reportedly did not travel with the squad for the upcoming encounter.
Hardik misses the team travel again
Questions over Hardik’s availability have intensified after he was absent when the Mumbai squad left for Raipur. The all-rounder had already missed MI’s previous game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) because of a back issue. However, there is still no official confirmation regarding the seriousness of the injury or when he could return.
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According to reports, there is currently no indication that Hardik will join the team before the RCB match. At the same time, the franchise has avoided making any definitive statement. The Mumbai Indians have maintained that the issue is purely fitness-related and nothing beyond that.
Rickelton’s remark raises more questions
The uncertainty became even more noticeable after MI wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton admitted he was unaware of Hardik’s injury until match day itself. Following Mumbai’s win over LSG, Rickelton revealed that he didn’t even know he had a back problem. I heard about it only on the afternoon of the match. I’m not sure how serious it is, but hopefully he returns soon.”
His statement highlighted the lack of clarity surrounding the captain’s condition, even within the dressing room.
Poor form adds to pressure
Hardik has endured a disappointing IPL season so far. In eight matches, he has managed only 146 runs with the bat, while also taking just four wickets at an expensive economy rate. His leadership decisions have also come under scrutiny as MI continue to struggle in the tournament.
While there are unverified reports suggesting dissatisfaction within sections of the team regarding his captaincy, nothing official has emerged yet.
Mumbai is running out of chances
Mumbai Indians currently sit in a difficult position on the points table, with only three wins from 10 matches. Their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread. The franchise still has away fixtures in Raipur, Dharamshala and Kolkata remaining. Even if MI win all three matches, they can only reach 14 points, and their poor net run rate could still prove costly.
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With uncertainty over their captain and inconsistent performances hurting the campaign, the Mumbai Indians now face a massive challenge in keeping their IPL 2026 hopes alive.
