Hardik Pandya has once again found himself at the centre of speculation after fans noticed that he had apparently unfollowed the official Instagram account of the Mumbai Indians following the team’s IPL 2026 exit.
The rumours began after the Mumbai Indians were knocked out of the playoff race following their defeat to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Soon after the loss, screenshots started circulating on social media claiming that the Mumbai Indians account was missing from Pandya’s following list. This quickly led to discussions about a possible rift between the captain and the franchise.
Rumours spread on social media
Fans across X and Instagram reacted strongly to the incident, with many linking it to the Mumbai Indians’ disappointing season. However, reports later suggested that the unfollow may have been temporary or accidental, as the franchise account reportedly appeared again on Pandya’s profile shortly afterwards.
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🚨HARDIK PANDYA NOT HAPPY WITH GIRLFRIEND HOTEL STAY POLICY🚨
— Muffatball vikrant (@Vikrant_1589) May 11, 2026
Hardik Pandya is unhappy after learning that Mumbai Indians were among the franchises that strongly pushed for stricter rules regarding players’ partners staying at team hotels during tournaments. It is being said… pic.twitter.com/kRWKFWZJIF
Neither Hardik Pandya nor the Mumbai Indians have made any official statement regarding the matter. Still, the social media activity was enough to fuel fresh rumours about the all-rounder’s future with the five-time IPL champions.
Tough season for the Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians endured another inconsistent IPL campaign despite high expectations at the start of the season. Pressure on Pandya has continued ever since he replaced Rohit Sharma as captain in 2024.
🚨BIG UPDATE: Hardik Pandya & MI 🚨
— Cricket Wisdom (@Cricketadd75277) May 11, 2026
Reports suggest Hardik Pandya is physically fit but struggling mentally, leading MI to rest him for the remainder of the season.
Key Take aways: 👇👇
🏏 Captaincy Change: Suryakumar Yadav will likely lead MI for the rest of IPL 2026.
💔… pic.twitter.com/yLqRtejs5d
To make matters worse, Pandya also dealt with injury concerns towards the end of the tournament. Reports stated that he was struggling with a back spasm and remained under medical observation during the closing stages of the season.
Also Read | Hardik Pandya’s absence sparks speculation as Mumbai fight to stay alive against RCB
For now, there is no confirmation of any issue between Pandya and the franchise, but the viral Instagram buzz has certainly kept fans talking.
