Major update on Hardik Pandya’s availability for PBKS vs MI clash of IPL 2026
(Courtesy : BCCI/IPL)
Hardik Pandya missed last two games for Mumbai Indians due to back spasm.
Mumbai Indians (MI) are going through a disappointing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The five-time champions have been knocked out of the tournament after a poor run in the league stage. Injuries and inconsistent performances have hurt the team badly this year.
One of the biggest concerns for MI lately has been the fitness of captain Hardik Pandya. The star all-rounder has struggled with back problems during the season. Because of this issue, he already missed matches against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) earlier this month.
In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav stepped in as the stand-in captain. Mumbai Indians lost important games during that phase and their playoffs hopes suffered a big blow after the defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Hardik Pandya doubtful for PBKS and KKR clashes of IPL 2026
According to the latest reports, Hardik Pandya is expected to miss Mumbai Indians’ next IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 14 in Dharamshala. Reports also suggest that his availability for the clash against Kolkata Knight Riders on May 20 remains uncertain.
A PTI journalist, Kushan Sarkar, shared an update on social media regarding the MI skipper’s fitness. He wrote, “Some #IPL news: Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya is still recuperating from a back niggle, and won’t be available tomorrow. Next match in Kolkata is 50/50 chance.”
Hardik’s repeated injury concerns have become a major talking point this season. Mumbai Indians are currently placed ninth in the points table. They have managed only three wins from 11 matches and collected just six points so far.
However, the skipper was recently spotted practising alone in the nets. Pandya posted the glimpses of his batting in the nets on his Instagram stories. His post became a major talking point on social media as netizens discussed if he was really unfit or being sidelined because of his poor performances.
Hardik Pandya was previously rumored to have had a spat with the Mumbai Indians management regarding the BCCI’s recent decision to keep the player’s guests away from private hotel rooms until authorised by team manager.
Why is Hardik Pandya missing matches?
He is recovering from a back injury.
Who is leading Mumbai Indians in Hardik’s absence?
Suryakumar Yadav is leading the team.
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Ishika Aggarwal is a passionate sports writer and lifelong cricket fan who thrives on capturing the moments that make the game unforgettable, from last-over thrillers to record-breaking centuries. Through match analysis, player profiles, and behind-the-scenes stories, she brings fans closer to the heartbeat of cricket.