Hardik Pandya has not played last two games for MI due to back spasms.
According to former India captain and selector Kris Srikkanth, Hardik Pandya would depart the Mumbai Indians following the conclusion of the IPL 2026 season.
Before the IPL 2024 season, Hardik returned for his second spell with MI from the Gujarat Titans, and the all-rounder was expected to herald a new era at the team. However, his tenure with MI as captain for three years has been anything but smooth.
MI suffered early exits in IPL 2024 and 2026, while they made it into the playoffs in IPL 2025. The all-rounder fueled rumors on social media that he would depart the team once more by unfollowing MI on Instagram immediately following their defeat to RCB.
Srikkanth stated on his YouTube channel that there is no news on Hardik's future and that it appears MI has informed the all-rounder that his skills are no longer required.
“Looks like there’s no news, no official update from anyone. It feels like they’ve basically said, ‘You’re not needed anymore; you can leave.’ In fact, you heard Hardik’s comments too. Either they will release him, or they’ll just say, ‘Thanks, bro, thanks for everything,’ and move on. Then the question becomes, where will he go next year? Will he be traded or go into the auction?" said Srikkanth on the YouTube channel.
Srikkanth also said that it is best if Hardik leaves Mumbai and goes somewhere else.
"The best thing for both parties is to say, 'Boss, you go your way, I will go my way. We will meet somewhere down the line," said Srikkanth.
Hardik Pandya has missed the last two games for MI in IPL 2026 due to back spasms. He was seen practicing alone in Mumbai ahead of the Punjab Kings match, but will not travel to Dharamshala for the game.