Hardik Pandya Shown Mumbai Indians' Exit. Image Credits: ChatGPT
Mumbai Indians are facing a difficult time in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). The five-time champions have struggled throughout the tournament, and now questions are being raised about the future of captain and all-rounder Hardik Pandya with the franchise.
There is no official statement from the team management so far. Even so, many experts that the franchise may take some big decisions after the season ends. The poor performances and leadership issues have all added pressure on the team.
A Season Full Of Disappointment For Mumbai Indians
Notably, Mumbai Indians have had a season to forget. The team has spent most of the tournament near the bottom of the points table. As a result, they are likely to finish among the last teams this year.
It is also important to note that Hardik Pandya’s second spell with Mumbai Indians has not gone as expected either. After returning to the franchise in 2024 and replacing Rohit Sharma as captain, Hardik managed to guide the team to only one playoff appearance in three years.
Michael Vaughan Suggests Hardik Pandya’s Release
Former England captain Michael Vaughan shared a strong opinion regarding Hardik Pandya’s future after KKR vs MI IPL 2026 match on Wednesday. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Vaughan clearly said that Mumbai Indians should release Hardik ahead of the next auction.
"Release," said Vaughan without any hesitation, when asked what MI should do with regards to Hardik ahead of the upcoming auction. Vaughan also explained why he felt the partnership between Mumbai Indians and Hardik had not worked properly.
"I have seen enough. I didn't really see the dynamic of bringing him back. He was doing a good job with the Gujarat Titans, won a title there with a different set of players and a different coach. I feel Mumbai have got too many chefs in the kitchen, so I'd take one chef out," explained Vaughan.
According to Vaughan, the team environment may have become crowded with too many leaders and decision-makers. Hence, removing one key figure could help the franchise move forward.
Also Read: Hardik Pandya Punished By BCCI For His Behaviour
Cameron Green Trade Idea Emerges
Interestingly, Vaughan also suggested a possible trade involving Australian all-rounder Cameron Green. "Replace him with Cameron Green," he said.
Before IPL 2024, Mumbai Indians had traded Cameron Green to RCB and brought Hardik Pandya back from Gujarat Titans. At that time, Hardik was seen as a future leader for India’s white-ball teams as well. Now, Vaughan feels a reverse trade could benefit everyone involved.
"If he wants to carry on as captain, then he'd better be with a fresh set of captains. Maybe KKR. Maybe they're going to look for a captain as well. That's why, Cameron comes to Mumbai, someone else will captain Mumbai. Hardik goes to KKR, fresh start for him as captain," suggested Vaughan.
Hardik Pandya Struggles While Cameron Green Impresses
It is important to note that Hardik Pandya has had a poor IPL 2026 season with both bat and ball. He scored only 172 runs in nine matches at a strike-rate of 128.35. In addition, he managed to take just four wickets.
On the other hand, Cameron Green has shown improvement as the season progressed. The Australian all-rounder scored 320 runs in 13 matches at a strike-rate of 146.78 and also picked up seven wickets.
Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians will play their final match of the season against Rajasthan Royals. The team will hope to end the campaign with a positive result.
Also Read: CSK Confirm MS Dhoni's IPL Comeback On 1 Condition
.jpg?type=mq "Michael Hussey on MS Dhoni..")
.jpg?type=mq "New Update on Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad")
