IPL 2026 Fact Check: Hardik Pandya Unfollows Mumbai Indians, Rohit Sharma after Elimination? Know the Truth

In a dramatic social media development on Sunday (May 10), Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya unfollowed the official MI Instagram account and removed several franchise-related posts.

Reports also emerged that he unfollowed key teammates, including Rohit Sharma. The fans went berserk on social media as it ignited controversy after their dismal elimination from the IPL 2026 playoff race on the night. MI, amid a disappointing season, suffered further problems, off the field this time.

Fact-Check: Did Hardik Pandya unfollow Mumbai Indians and Rohit Sharma?

The unfollow activity is confirmed through multiple fan screenshots and trending discussions. While such moves can sometimes result from temporary glitches or profile clean-ups, the timing - coming immediately after MI’s elimination - points to possible frustration. Pandya and Rohit have shared a complex captaincy transition since 2024, though the franchise has issued no official statement on any rift.

Yes, Hardik Pandya did unfollow the Mumbai Indians page, but he has refollowed the Paltans. But about Rohit Sharma, it is unclear if Hardik ever used to follow the veteran.

Mumbai Indians Eliminated: MI's Turbulent Ride Under Hardik Pandya - From 2024 Disaster to 2026 Elimination

Currently, Pandya follows 151 accounts on Instagram, and it includes the likes Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, but Rohit is not in the list.

MI’s IPL 2026 Elimination

The five-time champions became the first team to be knocked out of playoff contention after a last-ball loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With only 6 points from 11 matches (3 wins, 8 losses) and a poor net run-rate, Mumbai Indians’ campaign ended despite Rohit Sharma’s return and strong performances from Suryakumar Yadav. A string of heavy defeats sealed their fate mathematically.

The unfollow drama has intensified debates around Hardik Pandya’s leadership and his future with the franchise. Fans remain divided, with many calling it a sign of deeper turmoil. As the 2026 season concludes, all eyes are on whether this marks the beginning of the end of an era at Mumbai Indians.