IPL 2026: Amid Hardik Pandya Trade Rumours, Mumbai Indians Set To Have A New Captain vs Punjab Kings

The Mumbai Indians have been officially eliminated from IPL 2026. But the five-time IPL champions will hope for an overturn in their form when they take on Punjab Kings at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. Ahead of the match on Thursday, the Mumbai Indians are undergoing a mini captaincy crisis.

Jasprit Bumrah Could Lead Mumbai Indians Against PBKS

Both Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are yet to arrive in Dharamshala, and Jasprit Bumrah leads the Mumbai Indians for the first time in 13 years. The maverick speedster has been with MI since the inception of IPL and a good display as a captain might open new avenues for him.

Hardik has struggled due to a back spasm since the CSK and hasn't been involved in the last two matches. There have also been rumours going around of a possible trade deal involving the MI captain, but as per Cricbuzz, there hasn't been anything to the chatter.

Mumbai Indians' Hardik Pandya Conundrum

The Cricbuzz report also stated that tickets were booked for both Hardik and Suryakumar, but they didn't reach the hill city prior to the match. The report also quoted sources privy to the matter that the player hasn't attracted interest from any of the IPL sides.

Also Read: Three Captains At Risk Of Losing Jobs After Disastrous IPL 2026 Campaign: Report

Hardik rejoined Mumbai from the Gujarat Titans in 2023 but hasn't managed to lead the franchise to their 6th title. It hasn't been the most desired season for Hardik, who hasn't been in his usual stride. He has managed just 146 runs in 8 matches and added just 4 wickets to his tally.

After four defeats on a trot, Punjab need to win this tie to be alive in the playoff race.