3 players who could replace Hardik Pandya as captain of Mumbai Indians in IPL

Under Hardik Pandya’s captaincy, the Mumbai Indians finished ninth in IPL 2026.

Hardik Pandya was announced as the captain of the five-time champions, Mumbai Indians (MI), in Indian Premier League (IPL) on December 2023. In his first season as the captain, MI finished last in the league with eight points in 14 matches. In 2025, Mumbai reached the playoffs but lost to Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2.

In IPL 2026, MI again gave an underwhelming performance under the former Gujarat Titans skipper, finishing ninth with eight points. Following the team’s performance, questions have been raised about Hardik Pandya’s captaincy. Former cricketers and analysts have already started looking for new options to replace Pandya.

Also, there have been reports in Indian Express, which claimed that Pandya is all set to be sacked as MI captain as management and coaching staff has come hard on their players after the poor season.

Thus, without any further ado, let’s take a look at the 3 players who could replace Hardik Pandya as captain of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL.

Players who could replace Hardik Pandya as captain of Mumbai Indians in IPL

3. Suryakumar Yadav

Suryakumar Yadav proved his prowess as a captain when he guided the India to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. The 35-year-old has shown he can handle pressure at the highest level and is ready to take on the responsibility of leading the five-time champions.

Yadav did not enjoy the 2026 season as much, scoring 270 runs in 13 matches and recording only two fifties. He has been a part of the Mumbai Indians since 2018, and he gave his best performance last season, where he scored 717 runs in 16 matches. He also captained in a few games in 2026 and under him team looked good.

With a proven skill set and his ability to come to the rescue in tight situations, the 35-year-old can become Mumbai’s captain if Pandya is removed from the situation.

2. Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma joined the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2022 mega auction for a total fee of INR 1.7 crore. He made an impact right from the start, and in just a few years, he has turned himself into one of the best players of the side.

In the 2026 campaign, Varma came up a few batting brilliant performances for MI, during which he displayed his composure and ability to play under pressure. Varma’s temperament, along with his fearless approach, has been commendable in the T20 format. In case Mumbai decides to go with a younger captain, Varma would be the best option.

1. Jasprit Bumrah

Since his debut in the league, Jasprit Bumrah has always been a part of the Mumbai Indians. The 32-year-old is arguably one of the best bowlers in the world. The fast bowler has also led the India in a Test match and a couple of T20Is.

He also captained Mumbai Indians in one game this season, and subtly dropped his ambition to lead the franchise, saying that he never thought he would be Test captain before leading his franchise.

While Bumah has everything required to be a good captain, his fitness concerns and injuries would be something that will be under consideration. However, T20 format not being that exhausting, MI can hand him the responsibility.

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