Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians received a timely boost on the field with a crucial win in IPL 2026, but concerns around captain Hardik Pandya continue to linger after he missed the clash against Lucknow Super Giants due to a back spasm. MI opener Ryan Rickelton offered the latest update, admitting uncertainty over the severity of the issue while remaining hopeful of a quick return.Speaking after the match at the Wankhede Stadium, Rickelton revealed he had only recently become aware of Pandya’s condition. “I don’t know when he’s expected to be back. I found out this afternoon that he had back spasms, so I’m unaware of the extent of it. I don’t want to call it an injury; I’m unaware of the extent of how bad it is or what he’s feeling. But I’m sure he’ll be with the group again as we head to Raipur this week,” he said.In Pandya’s absence, Suryakumar Yadav stepped in as stand-in captain, confirming the situation at the toss. “Hardik’s not well tonight, so I’m going to step into his shoes,” he said.The franchise had earlier issued a brief statement: “Hardik Pandya is unwell with back spasm, hence Suryakumar Yadav is captain for today’s game.” The development added to a challenging season for Pandya, who has struggled both as captain and all-rounder.Despite the off-field concern, MI delivered a commanding performance. Chasing a daunting 229, Rickelton led from the front with a blistering 83 off 32 balls, while Rohit Sharma’s 84 powered the side to victory in just 18.4 overs. The dominant chase kept MI’s slim playoff hopes alive.Earlier, Lucknow Super Giants posted 228/5, courtesy of explosive knocks from Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh. However, MI’s batting firepower proved too strong on the night.While the result offered relief, the focus now shifts back to Pandya’s fitness. With the team set to travel to Raipur, Rickelton’s update suggests cautious optimism — but no clear timeline yet.
