![Hardik Pandya and Mumbai Indians owner [Source: AFP and AP Photos]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1780026361613_HardikPandyaMumbaiIndians.jpg?type=hq)
Hardik Pandya and Mumbai Indians owner [Source: AFP and AP Photos]
The IPL 2026 season turned out to be a nightmare for the Mumbai Indians. The five-time IPL champions managed to win only four matches out of 14 and finished in ninth place on the points table. As a result, the team ended the season only above Lucknow Super Giants.
Moreover, the disappointing performance has raised several questions inside the franchise. Discussions are now taking place regarding the future of captain Hardik Pandya.
Hardik Pandya Endured A Forgettable IPL 2026 Season
Notably, Hardik Pandya also had a difficult season individually. In eight innings, the 32-year-old all-rounder scored only 146 runs and picked up just three wickets. These numbers failed to match the expectations from an experienced all-rounder and captain.
At the same time, Mumbai Indians continued their title drought, which has now stretched to six years. Following another unsuccessful campaign, the franchise is reportedly preparing for major changes ahead of the next season.
According to a report by The Indian Express, people within the Mumbai Indians setup believe Hardik Pandya is likely to lose the captaincy role.
Sources close to the team revealed that there were already signs during the season that the management was unhappy with the direction of the side. In addition, concerns reportedly grew stronger after the team’s final league game against Rajasthan Royals.
“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,” said a source.
Also Read: Hardik Pandya Follows Arshdeep Singh's Footsteps, Removes His Entire Digital Trace
Hardik’s Return To Mumbai Indians Has Been Full Of Challenges
Hardik originally started his IPL journey with Mumbai Indians. Later, the franchise released him in 2022, after which he joined Gujarat Titans and immediately led them to an IPL title.
Eventually, Hardik returned to Mumbai Indians in 2024 and replaced Rohit Sharma as captain. However, the decision upset a large section of MI fans. During IPL 2024, the all-rounder faced heavy booing from crowds across different stadiums in India.
Since his return, MI have struggled to achieve consistent success. In 2024 and 2026, the team finished in the lower half of the table. Meanwhile, in 2025, MI reached Qualifier 2 before losing to Punjab Kings.
Questions Over Hardik Pandya’s Place In Mumbai Indians
It is also important to note that the discussion is not limited to captaincy alone. Reports suggest that Hardik Pandya’s place in the playing squad is also under review.
“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?” according to a MI old-timer.
Mumbai Indians Failed To Adapt
Another major concern for the franchise has been the team’s outdated approach during matches. “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.
Furthermore, none of the MI players featured prominently in the IPL Orange Cap or Purple Cap races.
As of now, Mumbai Indians have not made any official announcement regarding Hardik Pandya’s captaincy future. Even so, reports from inside the camp suggest that the possibility of a leadership change is very real.
