The future of Hardik Pandya with the five-time Mumbai Indians (MI) appears uncertain after a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, with sources suggesting that the all-rounder could leave the franchise ahead of next season.
According to a media report, Pandya had informed the MI management midway through the season that he was considering stepping away from the franchise following a mentally draining campaign.
“Hardik was mentally stressed and completely exhausted. He had also sustained a back injury. In fact, once the play-off hopes were dashed, Hardik informed the decision-makers that he wouldn’t be staying back,” an MI source in the know was quoted as saying by the Economic Times.
MI, one of the most successful teams in IPL history, endured a forgettable season in 2026 as they finished near the bottom of the points table, winning only four out of their fourteen league-stage games. They were also the first team to get eliminated from the race for the playoffs. The campaign was filled with criticism, inconsistent performances, and renewed scrutiny around Pandya’s captaincy.
Hardik, who returned to Mumbai Indians in 2024 and replaced Rohit Sharma as captain, had already faced a tough reception from fans during the previous two seasons. The all-rounder was repeatedly booed at several venues after taking over the leadership role from the five-time IPL-winning skipper. Constant pressure and internal challenges within the setup eventually took a toll on the 32-year-old.
“There is only so much that a young man can take. The last three years haven’t been easy for him. The MI dressing room that he had left in 2021 wasn’t the same when he returned in 2024,” the source was quoted as saying by the Economic Times.
The report further claimed that not all senior players within the camp were aligned during the season, which added to the frustration amid poor results. It was also stated that Pandya suffered a back injury during the tournament, further complicating matters.
While it remains unclear whether Pandya will look for a direct trade to another franchise or enter the IPL auction pool, the report suggested that he is unlikely to continue with Mumbai Indians next season.
Interestingly, the report also mentioned that a move to Chennai Super Kings could be a possible option if the all-rounder seeks a fresh environment after a mentally exhausting stint with MI. With the IPL trade window and retention discussions expected later this year, more clarity on Pandya’s future is likely to emerge in the coming months.
