New Delhi: Suryakumar Yadav is leading the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their clash against the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premeir League (IPL) 2026 on Sunday. Many were left surprised when Suryakumar walked out for the toss alongside DC skipper Axar Patel ahead of the clash between the two sides at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, leading to injury speculation.
However, Suryakumar revealed Hardik Pandya is not part of MI’s playing XI due to illness. Suryakumar, who is India’s T20I captain, led the Men in Blue to glory in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024. Hardik was part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad under Suryakumar.
Interestingly, Suryakumar was not part of the Mumbai Indians’ initial playing XI in their IPL 2026 opener against the Kolkata Knight Riders last week and came on as an Impact Sub. He now finds himself leading the five-time champions in the absence of regular skipper Hardik in his side’s second game of the season.
Why is Hardik Pandya not playing?
Hardik Pandya is not playing against the Delhi Capitals due to illness. Suryakumar revealed Hardik was not doing well and was thus deemed unfit to play against the Capitals. “He’s not well, doesn’t look good, so he was not fit for today’s game. So just getting into his shoes today,” said the MI stand-in skipper when asked about the all-rounder’s absence.
More to follow…