IPL 2026— The continuous absence of Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya from the field in the current season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has created a stir in the cricket circles. Pandya was also not a part of the playing eleven in the important match played against Punjab Kings on Thursday at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. Indian fast bowler Shardul Thakur has now clarified the situation on the differences within the team amid his absence and speculations about his exclusion from the next season.

IPL 2026: Is all well with Mumbai Indians? Shardul Thakur’s statement on the news of Hardik Pandya’s absence and team discord

Fitness vs rumours: Separate practice session raises questions

Initially there were official statements regarding Hardik Pandya’s injury, but the controversy deepened when he was seen practicing alone apart from the team’s official net session. In a video that went viral on social media, Pandya is seen bowling and batting in full rhythm. After this video, fans and experts raised questions that if the captain is fit, then why is he missing from the team’s matches? Many media reports claimed that there was a lack of coordination between the senior players and the management inside the dressing room.

Shardul Thakur told the inside truth

Commenting on all these discussions and the atmosphere of the team, Shardul Thakur made it clear that the reality may be different from what is seen in the outside world.

Will Pandya be out of Mumbai next season?

It is also being said in the reports that the management of Mumbai Indians is considering major changes before the next mega auction. News of the team’s unstable performance and internal strife under Pandya’s captaincy have given rise to claims that he may be seen in another franchise next year. However, the franchise has not yet given any official confirmation to these claims.

At the moment, the main concern for Mumbai Indians fans is Pandya’s return to the team and the team’s performance in the race for the playoffs. The team’s defeat in the cold weather of Dharamsala and the absence of the captain has left many serious questions on the future strategy.