The Mumbai Indians are set to play their penultimate game of the IPL 2026 season on Wednesday. The Men in Blue and Gold are coming into the contest on the back of their huge win over the Punjab Kings (PBKS) last week. As per a report by News18, skipper Hardik Pandya could be in line for a return to play the KKR vs MI game.

The 32-year-old hasn’t played the last few games owing to back spasms. In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav led the side against Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. It is to be noted that Yadav was also present at the Eden Gardens stadium, according to the same report.

35-year-old Indian T20I captain had missed the PBKS clash to spend time with his family after becoming a father recently. jasprit bumrah took over the captaincy mantle and led the side to their fourth win of the season. KKR, on the other hand, has to win the game to stay in the race for a spot in the playoffs.

Will Hardik play on Wednesday?

According to News 18, the ace all-rounder was seen bowling at good speeds and also effortlessly hitting the ball. Hardik last played for MI in the away game at the Chepauk stadium against the Chennai Super Kings.

With the Men in Blue and Gold exiting from the tournament early, questions were being asked about Pandya’s future as well. This could suggest the team is looking at their skipper getting back into the playing XI. With just two games left, the franchise wants to end the season on a high note.

Suryakumar is another player who will be keen to find some form with the bat after having a dreadful season. Veteran batter returns to his old stomping grounds,  where he spent four seasons and became the batter that he is today.

Former IPL champions braced for Finn Allen challenge

One batter the world would be looking forward to seeing is New Zealand star Find Allen. The 27-year-old has turned his season around after being benched for a few games. Allen, since his comeback, has scored 240 runs from four games with an average of 60. Kiwi batter has hit one century and scored a brisk 93 versus the Gujarat Titans.

Considering Mumbai’s bowling hasn’t been great this season, the challenge to stop the marauding blade of Kolkata’s opener will be key. The hosts will be keen to see their star player continue his purple patch with the bat and help the team secure two crucial points.