Rohit Sharma Likely To Lead MI As Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya Absent From Mumbai Camp | Reports

Mumbai Indians face a major selection and leadership dilemma ahead of their must-win clash against RCB with multiple key players uncertain.

Mumbai Indians are staring at a potential leadership crisis ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday, May 10. Stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav is unlikely to feature after not travelling with the squad to Raipur, raising immediate concerns over team balance.

Adding to their troubles, regular skipper Hardik Pandya also did not accompany the team. The all-rounder had earlier missed Mumbai’s previous fixture against Lucknow Super Giants due to a back spasm. His absence from the travelling squad has further deepened uncertainty, with no clear timeline yet on his return.

ALSO READ | MS Dhoni Return In IPL 2026 Still Uncertain; Rohit Sharma Nears MI Return

Travel Issues and Squad Uncertainty Add to MI’s Woes

A PTI agency report suggest that Mumbai Indians players and support staff have been travelling to Raipur in separate batches due to limited flight availability. This staggered travel could disrupt preparations for what is effectively a must-win encounter for the five-time champions.

Wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton admitted that the team remains in the dark regarding Pandya’s fitness situation. Speaking after the previous game, he said:

“I don’t know when he’s expected to be back. I only found out this afternoon that he had back spasms. I’m unaware of the extent of it or what he’s feeling. But I’m sure he’ll be back with the group as we head to Raipur this week,” Rickelton said.

Rohit Sharma, Bumrah Among Captaincy Options

In the absence of both Suryakumar and Pandya, the leadership responsibility could shift back to Rohit Sharma. However, the veteran opener is also dealing with a hamstring issue, making his availability uncertain. The team management is expected to take a late call on his participation.

If Rohit is deemed unfit, Mumbai could turn to senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah or youngster Tilak Varma to lead the side. The situation underlines the mounting pressure on the franchise as they fight to stay alive in the tournament.

ALSO READ | IPL 2026: Big Fitness Update on MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma Ahead of CSK vs MI

MI’s Playoff Hopes Alive After Rohit Sharma Heorics

Despite the off-field concerns, Rohit Sharma recently delivered a standout performance against Lucknow Super Giants. Coming in as an Impact Player, he smashed 84 runs off 44 balls, leading a stunning chase of 229 at the Wankhede Stadium.

His innings, featuring seven sixes and six boundaries, anchored a record 143-run opening partnership with Rickelton. Mumbai Indians currently have just three wins from ten matches and must win all their remaining fixtures to keep playoff hopes alive, while also depending on other results to go in their favour.