New Delhi: Mumbai Indians I got a timely boost in the field with a crucial win. IPL 2026, but concerns around the skipper Hardik Pandya He was also delayed after missing the clash against Lucknow Supergiants due to a back problem. Mi Opener Ryan Rickelton He offered the latest update, acknowledging uncertainty over the severity of the problem while hoping for a quick turnaround.Speaking after the match at the Wankhede Stadium, Rickelton revealed that he came to know about Pandya’s condition recently. “I don’t know when he’s expected to be back. I found out this afternoon that he had a sore back, so I don’t know the extent of it. I don’t want to call it an injury; I’m not aware of how bad it is or what he’s feeling. But I’m sure he’ll be back with the group,” he said as he left for Rapur this week.In Pandya’s absence, Surya Kumar Yadav Stepped in as stand-in captain, confirming the situation at the toss. “Hardik is not feeling well tonight, so I am going to step into his shoes,” he said.The franchise had earlier issued a brief statement: “Hardik Pandya is unwell with a back problem, so Surya Kumar Yadav is the captain for today’s match.” The development added to a challenging season for Pandya, who has struggled both as a captain and as an all-rounder.Despite the off-field concern, MI put in a commanding performance. Chasing a tough 229, Rickelton played a brilliant knock of 83 off 32 balls. Rohit SharmaK84 took the team to victory in just 18.4 overs. A mighty chase kept MI’s slim playoff hopes alive.Earlier, Lucknow Supergiants posted 228/5, courtesy of an explosive knock Nicholas Puran and Mitchell Marsh. However, MI’s batting firepower proved too strong on the night.While the result offered relief, the focus has now shifted to Pandya’s fitness. With the team traveling to Raipur, Rickelton’s update suggests cautious optimism – but no clear timeline yet.
