Jasprit Bumrah (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)
New Delhi: Star Fast Bowler Jasprit Bumrah was handed over Mumbai Indians Captaincy in the absence of both the regular captains Hardik Pandya And the stand-in captain Surya Kumar Yadav During the match against Punjab Kings in IPL 2026. It was Bumrah’s first time leading the team for Mumbai Indians, a franchise he has represented for over a decade.Bumrah’s first outing as the captain of Mumbai Indians turned out to be a memorable one as he sealed a six-wicket victory over Punjab Kings. In a video posted by Mumbai Indians on social media, Bumrah was heard saying, “Naik dekha hai? Ek din ka mukhya mantri. [Have you watched Nayak? CM For A Day]”Bumrah, who captained Mumbai Indians in the absence of both Pandya and vice-captain Surya Kumar, was drawing parallels with Bollywood film Naik: The Real Hero, in which star actor Anil Kapoor becomes the chief minister for a day.The quote comes from the 2001 film, which follows Shivaji Rao, a television cameraman who unexpectedly becomes the chief minister of a state for a day after challenging a corrupt politician during an interview. During his short tenure in power, he takes bold decisions against corruption and gains popular support.Since making his debut for Mumbai Indians in 2013, Bumrah has been an integral part of the franchise. Over the years, he played 157 matches for MI and took 186 wickets.Was Bumrah leading a team for the first time?This was not the first time that Bumrah had captained a team. He has previously led India in both Tests and T20s. His leadership experience includes captaining India in two Tests during the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia and the rescheduled Birmingham Test against England in 2022.Bumrah has also captained India in two T20Is, winning both matches under his leadership.After Mumbai Indians – already out of the race for the IPL 2026 playoffs – secured a win, Bumrah was asked about his experience leading the team during the post-match presentation.“Yes, the first game, like I said, I captained a Test match. I captained a T20I. Now the only game left is ODI cricket. But I don’t see it happening (laughs) but just joking. Really happy. I had good fun, good weather, great ground. So enjoyed my time,” said Bumrah.
