PBKS vs MI, IPL 2026: Why are Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav not Playing Today?

In a significant setback for Mumbai Indians ahead of their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, captain Hardik Pandya and star batter Suryakumar Yadav have both been ruled out.

The five-time champions, already knocked out of playoff contention after a narrow loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, will head into the dead rubber without two of their most influential players.

Why are Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav not Playing Today?

Hardik Pandya continues to battle a recurring back spasm that has sidelined him for the past three matches. The all-rounder remained in Mumbai for rehabilitation and trained alone for over three hours on Tuesday, but the MI medical team has not cleared him to travel or play. Official updates cite ongoing fitness concerns, with no risk being taken despite social media videos of his net sessions sparking speculation.

Suryakumar Yadav, who stepped up as stand-in captain in Pandya’s absence, is missing for personal reasons. The explosive batter recently became a father to a baby girl and has opted to stay back in Mumbai with his family. The franchise has granted him leave, especially with no playoff pressure remaining.

Who is Captaining Mumbai Indians Today?

Jasprit Bumrah is captaining the Mumbai Indians in the match. He won the toss and elected to bowl first.

"It feels good. I came here as a 19-year-old. I didn't think I will be a Test captain before I captain Mumbai Indians. I like this responsibility, this will be a new challenge. We've three games left and we want to play good cricket and ," said Bumrah at toss.