Hardik Pandya gets support from MI [Source: AP]Mumbai Indians stand eliminated from the IPL 2026 playoff race after a disastrous campaign. Despite criticism, captain Hardik Pandya got much-needed support from a fellow teammate ahead of the PBKS clash.Pandya, as captain, bore the brunt of MI's downfall this year as the team has lost 8 out of the 11 games played until now. Some agitated fans also demanded his sacking, as social media have begun the blame game.Corbin Bosch supports Hardik Pandya amid trade rumoursThat being said, Hardik Pandya missed the last couple of matches due to recurring back spasms, including MI’s crushing defeat to RCB that officially knocked them out of the playoff race.While Suryakumar Yadav stepped in as stand-in captain, Mumbai Indians all-rounder Corbin Bosch admitted the side has felt the absence of both Hardik’s leadership and all-round ability."It's obviously been tough. Hardik is not only a leader but a fantastic cricketer as well. We've missed his presence when it comes to the on-field stuff. I'm sure the people that are making decisions and the people that are looking after him are trying to do the best for him and for the team itself,” Bosch told the press.Also Read - Hardik Pandya Ruled Out Of Further Mumbai Indians Match In IPL 2026The South African all-rounder explained that MI’s biggest issue this season has been their inability to put together a complete performance. "We just have not put together a complete game. One day it’s been the bowlers who would do well and the batters struggle a little bit, or the (next day) the batters do well, and the bowlers struggle,” he added.Hardik Pandya to miss PBKS gameThat being said, the Mumbai Indians travelled to Dharamsala without their captain, Hardik Pandya, as they prepare to face the Punjab Kings on Thursday. Pandya stayed back in Mumbai, as he is yet to heal from the back spasm.According to reports, the skipper is being assessed by Mumbai’s medical team, and his availability for the rest of the season remains a mystery. For the Mumbai Indians, the playoff spot is already out of reach. Hence, they will now fight it out only to secure their pride and bow out on a winning note to give confidence to the players and something to cheer about to the fans.Hardik to be traded by the Mumbai Indians?Amid a disappointing IPL 2026 season, rumours of a rift between the Mumbai Indians' management and Hardik Pandya have raged like wildfire on social media.According to rumours, Hardik could be traded ahead of the next season, as he is reportedly in talks with multiple franchises. Remember, he was earlier traded from GT to MI in an all-cash deal.However, nothing has been confirmed yet. Hardik Pandya is the Mumbai Indians' face, and cutting him loose is a massive decision that cannot be taken overnight. For now, the skipper is very much committed to the franchise.Also Read - England’s Women World Cup Winner Joins Men’s Team
