Will Mitchell Santner, Will Jacks, Nuwan Thushara Play MI vs RCB Match?

Mitchell Santner Will Jacks Nuwan Thushara. [Source - AFP]

Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) face off in a crucial clash after their recent defeats, with both teams eager to bounce back. The game, scheduled for Sunday evening at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, promises to be a high-octane affair full of anticipation.

A key focus is on the fitness and availibility of Mitchell Santner and Will Jacks for Mumbai Indians. Their availability could significantly impact Mumbai's strategy, as they are integral to the team's balance in both batting and bowling departments.

Similarly, RCB's preparations hinge on the arrival of Nuwan Thushara, whose absence has been a significant concern for RCB. So, in this article, let’s take a look at the latest updates on Mitchell Santner, Will Jacks and Nuwan Thushara before the mouthwatering MI vs RCB IPL Match today. 

Will Mitchell Santner play the MI vs RCB IPL Match today? 

Mitchell Santner, who missed the previous match against Rajasthan Royals due to a shoulder injury, is likely to return for Mumbai Indians. MI's batting coach Kieron Pollard confirmed on Saturday that Santner has trained with the team over the last two days, signaling his readiness for the game.

Santner's presence will be crucial in MI's playing XI, especially for the two righty RCB openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and middle-overs, where he can control the run rate, will be key in limiting dangerous batters like Rajat Patidar.

Has Will Jacks Joined Mumbai Indians Camp for MI vs RCB?

It has been over two weeks, and there is still no clear indication of Mumbai Indians' all-rounder Will Jacks' arrival date for IPL 2026. His continued unavailability remains a big question among fans, gaining even more attention ahead of the MI vs RCB clash. 

Head coach Mahela Jayawardene mentioned earlier that Will Jacks had requested “slightly extended time” off for personal reasons ahead of the tournament. However, with the tournament progressing, the absence of the in-form all-rounder is starting to hurt Mumbai Indians.

Also Read: IPL 2026: MI vs RCB Prediction, Match 20- Who Will Win Today?

RCB pacer Nuwan Thushara's latest update

RCB is facing a unique conundrum with their overseas pacer, Nuwan Thushara, whose arrival for IPL 2026 has not been delayed due to any injury or fitness concerns, but rather due to ongoing disputes with the Sri Lanka Cricket Board.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) made it mandatory for players to undergo fitness tests before obtaining NOCs for franchise cricket. Thushara failed a couple of these tests before flying to India for IPL 2026, resulting in a massive setback for both him and RCB. 

In a dramatic turn of events, Thushara took legal action against SLC, filing a case to seek permission to play in the IPL. He argued that his contract with Sri Lanka Cricket had ended on March 31, 2026. 

However, in the latest developments, Thushara has apologized the board and withdrawn the case, expressing regret for the situation. Despite this, there are still no clear updates on his arrival date, leaving RCB desperate to have him onboard with three games already gone.

Also Read: Gautam Gambhir's Old Rival Joins BCCI