Hardik Pandya [Source: AP Photos]In a significant development, Hardik Pandya has given an important update regarding his return in IPL 2026. This news comes just before Mumbai Indians prepare for their third match of the season against Rajasthan Royals, scheduled at Barsapara Cricket Stadium on April 7.Earlier, Hardik Pandya missed the match against Delhi Capitals due to viral fever. This information was revealed by Suryakumar Yadav during the toss. Interestingly, there was no prior announcement about Pandya sitting out, and therefore his absence came as a surprise.Hardik Pandya missed IPL match against Delhi CapitalsAt the toss, instead of Hardik, Suryakumar Yadav stood alongside Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel. This situation made it clear that Pandya was not part of the playing XI. Suryakumar later explained that Hardik was unwell and not fit to play that day.Hardik Pandya’s absence had a noticeable effect on Mumbai Indians’ overall performance. The team struggled with the bat and managed to score only 162 runs after being asked to bat first. Although their bowlers made an early impact by reducing the opposition to 7/2, the team could not maintain that momentum.Also Read: Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians Availability For Further IPL Participation OutAs the game progressed, Sameer Rizvi played an outstanding innings of 90 runs, which helped Delhi Capitals secure a comfortable six-wicket victory in Delhi. This result clearly showed the importance of Hardik Pandya in the squad.Therefore, his absence did not just affect the team’s performance on the field, and it also impacted their confidence during key moments of the game.Positive signs ahead of RR match There is encouraging news for Mumbai Indians fans. Hardik Pandya has returned to training ahead of the upcoming match. The 31 year old all-rounder was seen practicing in the nets in Guwahati on Sunday night.During the session, he focused on his bowling first. He practiced yorkers with good pace and control, while also sharing insights with the team’s physiotherapist Nitin Patel. Hardik mentioned that he has been working on perfecting yorkers since the T20 World Cup, as mastering them makes other deliveries easier to execute.Hardik Pandya returns to netsAfter bowling, Hardik moved on to batting practice under the observation of batting coach Kieron Pollard. During this session, he showed good form, as he consistently connected the ball well with the middle of the bat. Notably, his shots produced a strong sound, which reflected solid timing and confidence. Pollard appeared satisfied with his performance, and this indicated that Hardik is regaining his rhythm.In the opening match against KKR, Hardik Pandya contributed with both bat and ball. He bowled three overs and took one wicket, while also scoring an unbeaten 18 runs off 11 balls. Notably, Mumbai Indians won that match by six wickets. However, they faced a setback in the following game against Delhi Capitals.At the same time, the Mumbai Indians are placed 6th on the IPL standings with 2 points and an NRR of -0.206.Also Read: Sanju Samson Enters Prestigious ICC List Amid IPL 2026 Slump
