Massive blow to MI, Mitchell Santner ruled out of IPL 2026; Keshav Maharaj announced as replacement

Mumbai Indians (MI) have suffered a major setback as their star all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been officially ruled out for the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The Kiwi star sustained a left shoulder injury while attempting a diving catch near the boundary during the team's recent home match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Keshav Maharaj replaces Mitchell Santner in MI's squad

In response to this development, the franchise has moved to bolster its squad by signing South African spin-bowling all-rounder Keshav Maharaj as a replacement. The IPL governing body formally confirmed the squad change in a statement released on Monday, April 27, 2026. Maharaj, an experienced campaigner who has previously appeared in the IPL, joins the Mumbai Indians for the rest of the tournament.

"Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj as a replacement for Mitchell Santner, who has been ruled out of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 owing to a left shoulder injury. Santner sustained the injury during MI’s last home game against Chennai Super Kings while attempting a catch near the boundary," IPL's statement read.

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Santner’s injury occurred during MI's match against CSK on April 23. While attempting a spectacular catch to dismiss Kartik Sharma in the 17th over of the first innings, the all-rounder appeared to injure his shoulder and was immediately seen clutching the area in visible discomfort. Following the incident, Santner walked off the field in clear pain, and the team brought on Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute. This decision sparked significant debate among fans and spectators, many of whom were perplexed as to how a shoulder injury could warrant the use of a concussion substitute under the tournament's rules.

Addressing the confusion, Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene clarified the situation. He explained that the substitution was not merely for the shoulder injury; Santner had also struck his head against the ground during the fall, which necessitated the concussion assessment and the subsequent tactical change.

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What does Keshav Maharaj bring to MI's table?

Maharaj, a seasoned left-arm spinner and former South Africa T20I captain, has officially joined the Mumbai Indians squad ahead of their must-win clash against the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium on April 29. Eager to hit the ground running, Maharaj wasted no time integrating with the team, participating in Monday's practice session.

At 36 years old, Maharaj brings a wealth of international experience, though his IPL resume remains relatively brief, with his only two prior appearances coming for RR in 2024. After going unsold in last December’s auction, this late-season call-up represents both a significant opportunity and a challenge for the veteran spinner.