Pollard blames MI's IPL 2026 struggles on failing to piece together full performances

Mumbai Indians sit ninth in IPL 2026 with two wins from eight games, their batting coach blaming inconsistent team efforts for the poor run.

MI's rocky IPL 2026 standings After eight matches in IPL 2026, Mumbai Indians occupy the tenth position on the points table with just two victories and six defeats. Their current form mirrors past struggles, including bottom finishes in 2022 and 2024, though they made playoff appearances in 2023 and 2025. This season, however, their performance remains uneven, and batting coach Kieron Pollard attributes it to the side’s inability to deliver a fully cohesive performance. The latest setback came in a six-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, where MI posted 243 runs but fell short with eight balls remaining in the chase. ## Pollard admits team shortcomings after SRH defeat Speaking at a post-match press conference following the loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kieron Pollard acknowledged the team’s inconsistency and admitted that the results reflect their struggles. He stated that while every small detail could be analyzed, the collective effort simply hasn’t been sufficient. Pollard emphasized that although the side has accepted frequent defeats, they have not conceded the tournament entirely. He expressed confidence that the team remains in contention and will review their approach to improve their campaign. ## Pollard defends Bumrah amid criticism When questioned about Jasprit Bumrah’s form, who has taken just two wickets in eight games with an economy rate of 8.80—the best among MI bowlers—Pollard responded with a touch of frustration. He pointed out that cricketers face constant scrutiny and lack the chance to correct public perceptions like professionals in other fields. Pollard accepted that poor performances draw attention but assured that Bumrah would rebound strongly. He added that fans and followers, both for MI and India, should support the bowler during his tough phase. ## Hardik Pandya's dual struggles highlighted Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has underperformed with both bat and ball in IPL 2026, managing 128 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 152.38 and four wickets at an economy rate of 12.26. His batting, particularly in a crucial lower-middle-order role, has been particularly disappointing. Commentators have noted that opposition bowlers have identified weaknesses in his game, limiting his scoring options. Saba Karim suggested that Hardik has struggled to adapt his technique, especially against short deliveries outside off stump, and is weighed down by leadership pressures amid the team’s struggles. ## Pandya's technique under the microscope Saba Karim argued that Hardik Pandya needs to evolve his batting approach as the game evolves, pointing out that other top-order batters have diversified their skills to handle various deliveries. He noted that Hardik’s tendency to set himself up only for fuller deliveries leaves him vulnerable when bowlers change their lengths. Karim acknowledged Hardik’s talent and past achievements but stressed that he must find new ways to counter opposing strategies to regain form. ## McClenaghan questions Hardik's bowling consistency Former Mumbai Indians pacer Mitchell McClenaghan observed that Hardik Pandya has lacked confidence with the ball this season, often bowling without clear intent. He noted a pattern where Hardik delivers three or four good balls but loses control on the remaining deliveries in an over, leading to higher run rates. McClenaghan advised Hardik to take ownership of his bowling role, suggesting he should bowl more deliberately in key phases like the powerplay or death overs, rather than simply going through his overs without a tactical plan.