![Hardik Pandya and Nita Ambani [Source: AP Photos]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1777178391026_Hardik Pandya and Nita Ambani.jpg)
Hardik Pandya and Nita Ambani [Source: AP Photos]
Mumbai Indians are going through a difficult time in IPL 2026. The five-time champions have struggled to find their rhythm this season. So far, the team has managed only two wins while losing five matches.
This poor run has raised concerns among fans and experts. As a result, their position in the points table has dropped significantly, which puts pressure on the team to improve quickly.
Mumbai Indians face tough phase in IPL 2026
Notably, the situation became more serious after their recent home defeat against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. This loss has affected their chances of reaching the playoffs.
At present, Mumbai Indians are placed eighth in the standings. In order to stay in contention, the team needs a strong winning streak in the coming matches.
Mumbai Indians captaincy change rumours begin
Soon after the loss, discussions about a possible captaincy change started spreading on social media. Many users questioned Hardik Pandya’s leadership and suggested that the management might replace him.
It is important to note that Hardik Pandya was announced as Mumbai Indians’ captain on December 15, 2023, ahead of the IPL 2024 season. Since then, the team has not won a title under his leadership. Notably, the team has shown moments of strong performance, although consistency has remained an issue.
At the same time, Hardik’s record as a captain in the IPL is notable. He led Gujarat Titans to a title win in 2022 and guided them to the final in 2023. Even so, some critics believe that his success there was supported by coach Ashish Nehra, who played an active role in on-field strategies. This comparison has added to the ongoing debate about his captaincy at MI.
Notably, after the loss to CSK, the entire MI team travelled to Jamnagar in Gujarat. This unexpected trip led to more speculation about possible changes within the team. Many believed that the management might take important decisions during this period.
Also Read: Hardik Pandya To Take Action vs Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah? MI Captain Hints Changes
An update on Mumbai Indians’ captaincy clears the air
However, a recent update from sports journalist Nitin K Srivastava has addressed these rumours. According to the journalist, everything within the team is normal.
He confirmed that the talks about a captaincy change are not true. The team environment remains stable, and there are no internal issues.
It is also important to note that the reality is quite simple. Mumbai Indians have a five-day break before their next match. Therefore, the trip to Jamnagar is meant for relaxation and recovery. The players are spending a few days there to refresh themselves before returning to action.
Hardik Pandya’s performance in IPL 2026
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya’s individual performance in IPL 2026 has not been very impressive. He missed one match due to fever. In the six matches he has captained, MI have won only two games.
With the bat, Hardik Pandya has scored 97 runs in six innings at an average of 19.40. His bowling performance has also been below expectations, with only three wickets and a high economy rate.
Mumbai Indians still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. The path is difficult, yet it is mathematically possible. MI will now face SRH in their next IPL 2026 match on Wednesday, April 29 at the Wankhede Stadium.
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