Mumbai Indians has confirmed that all-rounder Mitchell Santner will be out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2026 due to an injury. The five-time champions have now signed Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj as a replacement.
Santner sustained a shoulder injury during the MI vs CSK match at the Wankhede Stadium, and as a result, he will not participate in the 19th season of the lucrative league. This development comes at a challenging time for Mumbai, as the team has struggled in the tournament so far.
The Mumbai Indians squad has managed only two wins and five losses, placing them in the ninth position in the standings. Santner’s performance this season has been inconsistent, with him taking 5 wickets in four matches but conceding runs at a high rate. His inability to break key partnerships has contributed to the team’s difficulties. However, Santner has shown his value in crucial moments, often stepping up when needed. His experience as a captain would have been beneficial for Hardik Pandya, especially in the upcoming matches.
Despite his challenges this season, Santner has a solid IPL record overall. He has taken 30 wickets in 35 games, maintaining an average of 28.66 and an economy rate of 7.51. His presence on the field has always been a valuable asset to the team.
In response to the injury, Mumbai Indians have brought in Keshav Maharaj, who has previously played in the IPL. Maharaj was last seen competing in the New Zealand vs South Africa T20I series. He has represented Rajasthan Royals in the past and was included in their Playing XI for two matches in 2024.
Maharaj has joined Mumbai Indians for a fee of INR 75 lakh. His inclusion is expected to provide much-needed balance to the team’s bowling attack. As a spin specialist, he brings a different dimension to the side and could play a crucial role in the remaining fixtures.
With the IPL season entering its critical phase, Mumbai Indians will be hoping that Maharaj can fill the gap left by Santner and help the team turn their fortunes around. The team’s performance in the coming weeks will be vital in determining their chances of securing a playoff spot.
For now, the focus remains on adapting to the new dynamics and ensuring that the squad stays competitive in the remaining matches. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, Mumbai Indians are looking to bounce back and make a strong statement in the latter half of the tournament.
