The management plans to evaluate various facets of the team’s performance after finishing ninth on the points table, winning only four out of their 14 league matches. The last championship win for the Mumbai Indians was in 2020.
“There were clear indications throughout the season that the team management was hesitant to keep him as captain. There’s a definite buzz within the camp,” a source told the Indian Express.
This news followed MI’s concluding match of the season against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 24, where coaches reportedly emphasized the need for players to be more open to feedback.
An insider revealed, “The coaching staff clearly communicated to the senior players that they need to be receptive, regardless of where they play. There were multiple occasions where data-backed recommendations were made by the coaching team, but players did not adhere to them.”
The management is reportedly set for “serious reflection and discussion in the upcoming days” about Pandya’s role within the franchise, as mentioned in the report.
They aim to evaluate whether he should continue as captain, stay on as a player, or if further changes are necessary. Currently, no final decision has been reached since MI players and officials are on a break.
MI’s challenges were apparent throughout the season, especially as teams like RR and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) prospered with their aggressive batting styles.
The star players also did not rank among the top run-scorers and wicket-takers of the 2026 tournament.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
