DHARAMSHALA: Mumbai Indians, already out of the IPL-2026 playoffs, are under fresh scrutiny as captain Hardik Pandya remains absent from the squad. Pandya, reportedly troubled by back spasms, did not travel with the team to Dharamshala but posted a training video from Mumbai.
Bosch Addresses Pandya's Absence
On Monday, MI allrounder Corbin Bosch attempted to clarify the situation regarding Pandya. "Hardik is not only a leader but a fantastic cricketer. We've missed his presence when it comes to the on-field stuff. I'm sure the people that are making decisions and the people that are looking after him are trying to do the best for him and for the team itself. So, it has been tricky, but at the same time the game does move forward and we still need to play good cricket," Bosch said.
Diplomatic Response on Decision-Making
When asked why Pandya had not featured, Bosch deflected diplomatically. "A little bit above my pay grade, but I think whoever is making decisions, the physios and the management, they know a little bit more than I do," he remarked.
Inconsistency Plagues MI Campaign
Mumbai's campaign has been defined by inconsistency, a point Bosch highlighted while assessing their performances so far. "I think we just haven't put a complete game. One day the bowlers will do well and then the batters maybe struggle or the batters do well, then the bowlers struggle," he said. "Ultimately, it is all about the key moments and we just haven't won them enough this year."
Fielding Lapses Costly
Bosch also emphasized fielding lapses as a contributing factor. "Dropping crucial chances at crucial stages of matches have swung the game in the opposite direction and not in our favour. So, it's a multitude of things," he added.
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About the Author: Hindol Basu is a Principal Correspondent with The Times of India. Over the years, as a sports journalist, Hindol has covered important events like the 2012 London Olympics, 2008 Beijing Olympics, 2010 Commonwealth Games and the 2011 Cricket World Cup. Hindol has had a diverse profile having worked in all forms of media - TV, Radio, New Media and Print. Besides being an avid blogger, Hindol plays the guitar, writes poetry and is interested in photography.
