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Mumbai Indians (MI) endured a poor Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, finishing ninth on the points table. Their skipper Hardik Pandya failed to take them to the playoffs for the second time in three seasons. While there were speculations around Hardik leaving the franchise and make a move to another for IPL 2027, a report from PTI claims that the all-rounder was 'mentally stressed, completely exhausted' and had made up his mind to leave MI mid-season.
"Hardik was mentally stressed and completely exhausted. He had also sustained a back injury. In fact, once the play-off hopes were dashed, Hardik informed the decision-makers that he wouldn't be staying back," an IPL source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
"Please understand that Hardik is only 32. He returned to MI in 2024 when he was 30. He was booed in the first year and this season too things didn't go according to plan," the source added referring to the period when Hardik was traded to MI and replaced Rohit Sharma as captain.
The source further claimed that Pandya noticed change in the MI dressing room when he left in 2021 to join Gujarat Titans (GT) and on his return in 2024. The source also says Hardik lacked support as seniors in the MI squad weren't on the same page.
"There is only so much that a young man can take. The last three years haven't been easy for him. The MI dressing room that he had left in 2021 wasn't the same when he returned in 2024. Not every senior player was on the same page.
"If results come despite divergent views, you still won't feel frustrated. But when everyone pulls in different directions, after a point you don't have the mental bandwidth to carry on. So, Hardik had decided mid-season that he wouldn't be part of MI next season," the source further said.
Hardik to be traded or enter auction pool?
Hardik was retained for Rs 16.35 crore by MI. With several teams leading leadership or a dependable all-rounder, an update on his move to another IPL franchise will come in a few months’ time. The 32-year-old also has the option to enter the auction pool.
"One thing is for sure. He is done with MI. Closer to August, one might get some indication about what his next move will be," the source further added.
Pandya’s next match
Meanwhile, Pandya will be next seen in action when India go up against Afghanistan in the three-ODI series, commencing on June 14. However, when the squad was announced, it was mentioned that his participation is subject to fitness.
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