Last Updated: May 20, 2026 11:53 AM
Eden Gardens is ready to host another IPL match between two classy teams. The fixture holds value for both teams for various reasons. One side fights to avoid last place while the other needs miracles.
Mumbai Indians sit at the bottom of the IPL 2026 points table. They’ve got only 4 wins from 12 matches played so far. The five-time champions recently faced finishing last for the third time.
Their captain has been missing in action for the past three games. Back spasms kept him away from leading the team lately. Fans keep asking whether he returns for today’s crucial encounter.
Hardik Pandya’s Return Expected
Good news comes from the MI camp before the match. Hardik Pandya is likely available for selection against KKR today. The captain recovered from the back spasms that sidelined him.
He’s been fast-tracked back into the squad after missing some vital games. Raj Angad Bawa got ruled out for the rest of the contest. Hardik Pandya returns in the playing XI officially now.
The all-rounder has captained MI since IPL 2024. His captaincy and all-round skills were badly missed during those three games. Suryakumar Yadav filled in as the temporary captain during his absence.
Suryakumar Yadav Also Returns
Suryakumar missed the last match against the Punjab Kings for personal reasons. But ESPNcricinfo reports suggest he’s available for selection today too. Getting both stars back boosts MI’s lineup significantly ahead.
Mumbai needs to finish its disappointing season on a positive note. Winning against KKR would help morale despite the playoff elimination already. The team wants to avoid finishing dead last at all costs.
KKR’s Injury Concerns
KKR sets Matheesha Pathirana’s fitness before team picking today. The Sri Lankan pacer struggled badly during the last match. The medical team considers whether he’s fit enough to play.
If unavailable, Blessing Muzarabani might replace Pathirana in the playing eleven. KKR holds a poor record against MI historically speaking. They’ve lost 25 matches from 36 encounters between these teams.
A KKR win today doesn’t guarantee playoff qualification for them. They need favorable results from the Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals matches!
