Delhi: Mumbai Indians (MI)’s Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 journey ended in a very disappointing manner with the defeat in the final match of the league stage against Rajasthan Royals (RR). The team finished ninth in the points table, after which batting coach Kieron Pollard openly expressed his views about the leadership of captain Hardik Pandya.

The season was not as expected for Hardik

While talking to the media after the match, Pollard admitted that Hardik’s season as captain was not as per expectations. He said that not only Hardik, but also the team management was expecting better results. However, the franchise tried to give him full support in every situation so that he could lead the team openly.

Pollard also made it clear that the team did not abandon Hardik in difficult times and every possible effort was made to make him successful.

The entire team is responsible for the defeat

Pollard refused to hold any one player responsible for the poor performance of Mumbai Indians.

He said that cricket is a team game and when there are consecutive defeats, the entire team has to introspect.

He said that the players, coaching staff and support staff all worked hard, but on many occasions the team lagged behind in both luck and performance. According to Pollard, now there is a need for the team to learn from its mistakes and come back with new energy in the next season.

No decision will be taken yet on changes in the team

Pollard also reacted to the possibility of major changes in the team in the future.

He said that it would not be right to take any decision due to emotions at this time. First the entire season will be reviewed and then it will be decided which areas need improvement.

Pollard indicated that the team management does not want to take any hasty steps and all decisions will be taken after careful consideration.

Giving rest to Jasprit Bumrah was the right decision

Pollard also supported the decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah in the match against Rajasthan Royals. He said that Bumrah is a very important player of Indian cricket and it is important to take care of his workload.

According to Pollard, victory in this match was not going to bring any major change in the team’s situation, hence keeping the future in mind the team management decided to rest the fast bowler.

It is noteworthy that the IPL 2026 season was disappointing for Mumbai Indians in many ways. Despite having big names in the team, the performance was not as per expectations. The pressure of captaincy was clearly visible on Hardik, but it would not be right to hold him responsible only. Now, instead of taking emotional decisions, Mumbai Indians need to focus on a balanced strategy and strong team combination, so that the team can make a strong comeback in the next season.