Mumbai Indians need a response against Punjab Kings after a slow start to IPL 2026, and the make-up of their XI is shaped by form and fitness questions.
Where MI stand
Hardik Pandya’s side has won only once in its first four games. They beat Kolkata Knight Riders to start the campaign, then lost in turn to Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru. That leaves them near the bottom of the table.
The squad remains strong on paper, built around an Indian core with several international stars. Still, Tilak Varma and Jasprit Bumrah have yet to make a major mark this season, despite their recent success at the T20 World Cup.
Likely batting order
The top order is expected to combine experience with aggression. Rohit Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton should look to provide quick powerplay starts, with Suryakumar Yadav anchoring the middle order.
Rohit picked up a hamstring concern in the previous game against RCB. He is expected to be fit for selection, although his availability is a key talking point ahead of the match.
Suryakumar has had an up-and-down campaign, scoring 106 runs in four matches at an average of 26.50, a mixed start for the T20 captain.
