IPL 2026: Will Hardik Pandya be available for RR clash?
What's the story
Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya, who missed the last match against Delhi Capitals due to viral fever, is all set to make his return. He was seen training in Guwahati on Sunday night ahead of the upcoming clash with Rajasthan Royals on Tuesday. Stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav, in MI's last game against Delhi Capitals, had confirmed at the toss that Hardik was "unwell."
Team adjustments
MI lose in Hardik's absence
In Hardik's absence, MI had to make a few changes. Deepak Chahar and Corbin Bosch were brought in while Trent Boult was replaced by Bosch to keep the overseas players count at four. Despite these changes, the Surya-led unit lost their second match of IPL 2026 to Delhi Capitals by six wickets. Hence, they would be raring to get their regular skipper back in the mix.
Training update
Hardik back to bowling
In his training session, Hardik was seen bowling at good pace and practicing his yorkers. He told MI physiotherapist Nitin Patel that he had started practicing these since the T20 World Cup earlier this year. With batting coach Kieron Pollard closely observing him, Hardik also batted in the nets where he looked in good touch.
Past performance
MI vs RR on Tuesday
In MI's season-opener against Kolkata Knight Riders, Hardik had bowled three overs for 39 runs and scored an unbeaten 18 off 11 balls. Now, with his return to training, he is likely to be back on the field for the clash against Rajasthan Royals. The Riyan Parag-led team has won their first two games against Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans.