The 2026 Indian Premier League season has gone from bad to worse for Mumbai Indians, with the franchise now losing two more players to injury ahead of their final league matches. South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock and young Indian all-rounder Raj Angad Bawa have both been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament, adding to MI’s growing list of concerns in an already disappointing campaign.
De Kock suffered a tendon injury in his left wrist before Mumbai Indians’ clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, while Bawa picked up a ligament tear in his right thumb during the team’s previous encounter against Punjab Kings. Both players have returned to their respective homes and are currently recovering from their injuries.
In an official statement, Mumbai Indians confirmed the setbacks and added that replacements for the injured duo would be announced in accordance with IPL guidelines. The absence of De Kock is a significant blow for MI, especially considering his experience and explosive batting ability at the top of the order. The left-handed batter last featured for the franchise on April 23 and scored 132 runs in three innings this season, including a brilliant unbeaten 112 against Punjab Kings.
Bawa, meanwhile, had limited opportunities this year but remained an important squad option. The 23-year-old former India U19 World Cup-winning all-rounder played three matches this season, matching his appearances from the previous edition.
Mumbai Indians have endured a forgettable IPL 2026 campaign and currently sit ninth on the points table with just four wins from 12 matches and a net run-rate of -0.504. The five-time champions have already been eliminated from playoff contention and now have only two league games remaining, against Kolkata Knight Riders in Kolkata on May 20 and Rajasthan Royals in Mumbai on May 24.
To make matters worse, MI have also been without captain Hardik Pandya for the last three matches due to back spasms. The team struggled to build momentum throughout the season despite beginning their campaign with a convincing six-wicket victory over KKR. However, inconsistent performances and repeated defeats derailed their progress.
Mumbai Indians will now hope to finish the season on a positive note and restore some pride in their remaining matches.
