Pandya missed the game against LSG due to back spasms.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, MI opener Ryan Rickelton confirmed the issue but expressed uncertainty over its severity, hoping for Hardik’s swift return.
“I don't know when he's expected to be back. I found out this afternoon that he had back spasms, so I'm unaware of the extent of it. I don't want to call it an injury; I'm unaware of the extent of how bad it is or what he's feeling. But I'm sure he'll be with the group again as we head to Raipur this week,” Rickelton told reporters.
Suryakumar Yadav took over captaincy in Pandya’s absence, confirming the situation while speaking to Deep Dasgupta at the toss. “He's (Hardik) not well tonight, so just going into his shoes,” Surya said.
MI had also issued a statement: “Hardik Pandya is unwell with back spasm, hence Suryakumar Yadav is captain for today’s game.”
This setback added to a challenging season for Pandya, who has failed to make a mark both as captain and all-rounder this season.
Under Suryakumar, MI defeated LSG by six wickets in a high-scoring affair. Invited to bat first, the visitors racked up a formidable 228/5 on the board, driven by quickfire contributions from Nicholas Pooran (63 off 21) and Mitchell Marsh (44 off 25).
After LSG got off to a blistering start, MI bowlers pulled things back effectively, allowing them to score only 68 runs in the last 8 overs. In reply, Rohit Sharma (84 off 44) and Ryan Rickelton (83 off 32) starred with rapid fifties, sharing a 143-run opening stand to help the hosts reach the target in 18.4 overs.
Despite the victory, the five-time champions are fighting for survival as they need to win their remaining four league matches to stay in contention for the playoffs.
Mumbai Indians will next face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Sunday (May 10) in Raipur.