Mumbai: Fresh concerns have emerged over the fitness of Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya after reports suggested he is unlikely to join the squad for their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings (PBKS), despite recently posting videos of himself training alone.
Solo training raises questions
Pandya shared clips of his practice session at the Reliance Corporate Park, where he was seen batting under floodlights and striking the ball confidently. Reports indicate that he trained for over three hours, signalling efforts to regain match fitness.
However, the solo training session has done little to ease uncertainty around his availability. The all-rounder has been recovering from a back spasm that forced him to miss recent matches against Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Doubt over Dharamsala appearance
According to reports, Pandya is unlikely to travel to Dharamsala for MI’s upcoming clash against Punjab Kings. The team had already reached the venue from Chandigarh, but both Pandya and stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav were not part of the travelling squad.
Suryakumar, who led MI in Pandya’s absence, has also been away due to personal reasons after being blessed with a baby girl. His delayed return adds another layer of uncertainty to MI’s preparations ahead of a crucial fixture.
Injury concerns, not off-field issues
Amid growing speculation on social media, another report clarified that Pandya’s absence is purely due to injury concerns. Sources have maintained that there is no off-field issue and that the situation is straightforward, centred around his recovery from the back problem.
Despite his visible efforts in training, the team management appears cautious about rushing him back into action, especially with the tournament entering a decisive phase.
Tough season for Pandya and MI
Pandya has endured a difficult IPL 2026 season so far. In eight matches, he has scored 146 runs and picked up just four wickets, falling short of expectations as an all-rounder and captain.
Mumbai Indians, too, have struggled for consistency this season. Once considered strong contenders, they have failed to deliver cohesive performances, leaving their campaign on shaky ground.
Key players under pressure
In Pandya’s potential absence, the onus will fall on senior players like Rohit Sharma and overseas batter Ryan Rickelton to provide a solid start at the top of the order.
Meanwhile, the bowling unit will rely heavily on experienced pacers such as Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult, who are expected to exploit the seam-friendly conditions in Dharamsala.
Suryakumar Yadav, once he rejoins the squad, will also be eager to rediscover form after a prolonged lean patch in both international and franchise cricket.
Conclusion
Hardik Pandya’s absence continues to cast a shadow over Mumbai Indians’ campaign as they approach a crucial encounter against Punjab Kings. While his training videos suggest progress, the uncertainty around his return highlights the team’s cautious approach towards player fitness. With key players under pressure and limited matches remaining, MI must quickly regroup to keep their hopes alive in IPL 2026.