Mumbai Indians have shared a fresh update on captain Hardik Pandya and vice-captain Suryakumar Yadav ahead of their crucial Indian Premier League 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Raipur on May 10.
Initially, neither Hardik nor Suryakumar travelled with the squad. Hardik had missed Mumbai’s previous victory against Lucknow Super Giants due to a back spasm, while Suryakumar stayed back to be with his wife following the birth of their daughter.
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However, Hardik later joined the squad in Raipur on Thursday, although his availability for the match remains uncertain. A Mumbai Indians spokesperson confirmed that the all-rounder is still being monitored by the medical team.
“Hardik continues to be evaluated by the medical team, and they will update us on his progress,” the spokesperson said. The franchise also confirmed that Suryakumar is expected to join the team ahead of the match.
The fixture against RCB is effectively a must-win game for Mumbai Indians, who currently sit ninth on the points table with just six points from their campaign. With only four matches remaining, MI need to win all their games to keep their playoff hopes alive.
If Hardik is ruled out, Suryakumar could take charge of the side upon his arrival. Former captain Rohit Sharma also remains an option to lead the team if required.
Meanwhile, MI batter Sherfane Rutherford admitted the pressure surrounding the team’s qualification scenario but insisted the squad remains focused on winning every remaining game to stay in contention for the playoffs.
