Hardik Pandya could lose the Mumbai Indians captaincy after the team’s disappointing campaign in IPL 2026. The five-time champions finished ninth in the points table with only four wins in 14 matches.
Mumbai Indians ended the season with the same number of points as Lucknow Super Giants. However, they avoided finishing last because of a better net run rate. Hardik also struggled with his own performances during the tournament. The all-rounder scored only 206 runs at a strike rate of 138.26. He also picked up just four wickets with an economy rate of 11.43.
According to reports, the Mumbai Indians management is not interested in continuing with Hardik as captain. Discussions are also taking place regarding his future in the playing XI.
“There were enough signs during the season that the team management wasn’t keen to retain him as captain. There is a clear buzz in the camp,” a source in the report was quoted as saying.
Mumbai Indians management to review team future
The 2026 season was Hardik’s third year as Mumbai Indians captain. He returned to the franchise in 2024 and replaced Rohit Sharma as skipper. Mumbai finished last in 2024 before reaching Qualifier 2 in IPL 2025.
“There will be serious introspection and discussion in the coming days. Every option would be weighed. Many questions need to be addressed. Going ahead, can Hardik be the captain? Does he stay in the team just as a player?” a franchise insider said according to the same report.
Reports also claimed that the coaching staff gave strict messages to senior players after Mumbai’s 30-run loss against Rajasthan Royals.
“The coaching staff was very clear in their message to the senior players that wherever they play, they need to be coachable. There were many instances where the coaching staff recommended something which was backed by data but players didn’t follow it,” another source stated.
“We haven’t been able to use the Powerplay like some of the more successful teams this IPL. We haven’t moved with the times,” said another source.
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