Hardik Pandya's future five times Mumbai Indians MI (MI) look uncertain after a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, with sources saying that the all-rounder may leave the franchise before the next season.
According to a media report, Pandya had informed the MI management midway through the season that he was considering walking out of the franchise after a mentally exhausting campaign.
The Economic Times quoted an MI source as saying, “Hardik was mentally stressed and completely exhausted. He also had a back injury. In fact, once the play-off hopes were dashed, Hardik informed the decision-makers that he would not stay back.”
One of the most successful teams in IPL history, MI suffered a forgettable season in 2026 as they finished bottom of the points table, winning only four of their fourteen league stage games. It was also the first team to be eliminated from the playoff race. The campaign was filled with criticism, inconsistent performances and renewed scrutiny over Pandya's captaincy.
Hardik, who returned to Mumbai Indians in 2024 and replaced him Rohit Sharma As captain, he had already faced a tough reception from the fans during the last two seasons. The all-rounder has been repeatedly criticized at various places after taking over the leadership role from the five-time IPL-winning captain. The constant pressure and internal challenges within the setup eventually took a toll on the 32-year-old.
“There is only so much a youngster can take. The last three years have not been easy for him. The MI dressing room he left in 2021 was not the same when he returned in 2024,” the Economic Times quoted the source as saying.
The report further claimed that all the senior players in the camp were not united during the season, leading to increased frustration amid the poor results. It was also said that Pandya suffered a back injury during the tournament, further complicating matters.
While it is unclear whether Pandya will seek outright trade with another franchise or enter the IPL auction pool, reports suggest that he is unlikely to remain with Mumbai Indians next season.
Interestingly, the report also mentions this move Chennai Super Kings This could be a possible option if the all-rounder wants a fresh environment after a mentally draining stint with MI. With the IPL trade window and retention discussions expected later this year, more clarity on Pandya's future is likely to emerge in the coming months.
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