![Akash Ambani. [Source - AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1777034200026_AkashAmbani.jpg?type=hq)
Akash Ambani. [Source - AFP]
Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 campaign has been highly inconsistent with flashes of brilliance followed by poor performances. Their latest heavy defeat against CSK has once again raised serious questions about their form, strategy, and overall team balance this season so far.
With only four points from seven games, Mumbai Indians are struggling in the points table. Fans and former cricketers are heavily discussing their poor performances, selection issues, and lack of consistency, with former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali also dragging Mumbai Indians’ owner into the ongoing debate around their form.
Basit Ali passes comments on Akash Ambani amid Mumbai Indians’ struggles
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali, speaking on The Game Plan YouTube channel, made derogatory remarks about Mumbai Indians’ owner. While analysing their defeat against CSK, he suggested that frustration within the franchise hierarchy would soon intensify due to poor results.
“Mrs Ambani jab unke bache ko gussa ayega na tab danda denge bhai chalo ab jeeto match, ab out nehi hona, sau karo sau” Basit Ali said implying that strong instructions would come from the Mrs Ambani's son Akash Ambani, who will be asking his players to start performing now.
Basit Ali indirectly referred to Akash Ambani, stating that continuous poor performances could lead to strict reactions from the owners. According to him, when results do not improve, management intervention becomes inevitable in a high-profile franchise like Mumbai Indians, especially under growing public scrutiny.
Also Read: When 13-Year-Old Sachin Tendulkar Played For Pakistan Under Imran Khan
Basit Ali targets Danish Malewar, questions MI’s selection policy
Basit Ali also criticised Mumbai Indians’ selection strategy, calling it inconsistent and confusing. He pointed out that the opening combination has failed repeatedly to give strong starts, which has been one of the major reasons behind their poor performances in IPL 2026 so far.
He specifically questioned the inclusion of Danish Malewar, who made his debut against Gujarat Titans but failed to make an impact in his first two games. Basit Ali mocked the decision, asking why MI are investing in a player who, according to him, is not yet ready for T20 cricket at this level.
“Who is this opener? Danish Malewar. Why MI is playing him. Is he a Sifarshi? [got selected on influence]. Play him four-day matches if he is good in first class cricket. This is T20,” Basit said.
Basit Ali further highlighted the uncertainty around players like Trent Boult and the rotating wicketkeeper choices between Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock. He concluded that despite a strong squad on paper, Mumbai Indians are failing to perform as a unit for some time now.
Pressure rises on Mumbai Indians and Hardik Pandya
Basit Ali’s remarks have added more heat to Mumbai Indians’ already struggling campaign. His comments indirectly pointed towards ownership pressure and highlighted the growing concerns around decision-making and consistency within one of the most successful IPL franchises.
With just four points from seven matches, Mumbai Indians are under serious pressure. Hardik Pandya and the management now face a must-win situation, needing at least five wins from their remaining seven games to keep their IPL 2026 playoffs qualification scenario alive.
Also Read: Mitchell Santner Ruled Out Of IPL 2026? MI All-Rounder Walks Out With Injury vs CSK Match
