The poor form of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026, which has seen them languishing at the bottom of the table, has been marked by both immense pressure on captain Hardik Pandya and a defense (or vindication/backing) from veterans and coaching staff
Robin Singh (Former MI Coach) defending Hardik by questioning why other proven international batters in the squad (referring to the failures of the experienced top order) are not delivering. argued that Hardik should not be made a “scapegoat” for the team’s poor performance.
Kieron Pollard (MI Batting Coach) expressed frustration with the continuous spotlight on Hardik, saying he is “sick and fed up of people pinpointing” the captain. Pollard emphasized that it is a collective team failure, not just Hardik’s, and highlighted that the captain has been great around the group despite the results.Mahela Jayawardene (MI Head Coach) defending the leadership and team performance, stating that the responsibility is collective, particularly noting that key players like Bumrah and Suryakumar haven’t hit their usual peaks
The unwavering support from within the camp)Exoneration (e.g., Pollard’s exoneration of Hardik)These defenses often point out that the team’s problems—such as a lack of discipline in bowling and a failing top-order—are not solely the fault of Hardik’s leadership or form.Hardik Pandya – Victim of a Bad PR There has been enormous …24 Apr 2026 — Hardik Pandya – He was Victim of a Bad PR There has been enormous criticising going against Hardik since his return in MI from 2024 As if Hardik Pandya is playing lone… It’s turning out to be yet another poor season for one of the most successful teams in IPL history as they languish in ninth position, and Sharma missing out .
MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene defends Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah amid poor form saying that they are human.
News Edit KV Raman
