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Following a disastrous IPL 2026 campaign and an early elimination, Hardik Pandya’s tenure as captain of one of the league`s most successful franchises appears to be nearing its end. Media reports indicate that the Mumbai Indians (MI) management is preparing for a complete squad overhaul, starting with a change in captaincy.
Mumbai endured a miserable season, losing 10 of their 14 group-stage matches and finishing ninth on the standings. The five-time champions have now gone six consecutive years without lifting the IPL trophy. However, a report by The Indian Express reveals that Pandya’s leadership is far from the only issue plaguing the camp. The management is also deeply concerned about the attitude of senior players, poor utilisation of the powerplay, and a failure to adapt to the modern T20 template.
While it is highly probable that Pandya will be stripped of the captaincy, his position in the playing XI is also under scrutiny. Future discussions will determine how the all-rounder fits into the restructured squad and what he can contribute strictly as a player.
According to reports, insiders from the MI camp have clarified that the management will not release him immediately, but his position in the team and his captaincy will be under scrutiny.
Deeper issues within the MI camp
According to The Indian Express report, the Mumbai Indians coaching staff has firmly communicated that senior players must remain receptive to tactical feedback and data-driven recommendations, as some players were reportedly perceived as being `uncoachable` during the season.
Furthermore, MI admitted to being unable to maximise the Powerplay overs compared to more progressive teams. Compared to playoff contenders like Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, who score at over 10 runs an over upfront, MI lagged behind, struggling in the first six overs.
In the coming weeks, MI’s hierarchy will finalise the fate of Pandya, whose relationship with the franchise`s fanbase has been highly strained since his high-profile return in 2023. After being heavily booed during his initial return season when MI finished last, a brief recovery in 2025 offered hope. However, this year`s poor campaign has once again turned many fans against his leadership.
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