The Mumbai Indians (MI) are reportedly unhappy and frustrated with repeated dressing room leaks during their difficult IPL 2026 season, which has left the franchise facing internal problems. The five-time champions finished ninth in the points table and failed to qualify for the playoffs for the second time in three seasons under captain Hardik Pandya.
The team management has been unable to identify or stop the leaks, with confidential information being revealed several times throughout the season. Recently, reports claimed that MI are considering removing Hardik Pandya as captain. This is just one of several internal matters that have become public, much to the frustration of the franchise management.
“Differences exist in almost every dressing room, but the division and bitterness at Mumbai Indians have been unusually high since Hardik returned. It doesn’t take an expert to see what’s happening, but for a franchise like Mumbai (Indians), which has always valued its core group, the constant leaks are a major concern. It’s a strong word, but it’s the reality. That dressing room has seen legends, captaincy transitions, and more, but it has never been like this,” a source tracking developments told the Times of India.
“Whether it’s the visible divide in the dressing room, body language on the field, or the way they play, the issues are obvious. If players think they can take MI for a ride, they need to rethink that. The priorities clearly aren’t right. Players are taking too long to return to action, and everyone just seems to be marking attendance,” the source added.
The report also states that the franchise has identified the source of the problem and is prepared to take strict action to bring things back on track after a disappointing season.
Mumbai Indians Sign Off IPL 2026 Campaign With 30-Run Defeat to RR
Led by Hardik Pandya, Mumbai Indians finished their disappointing season with a home loss to the Rajasthan Royals in their final league-stage match. Chasing a target of 206 runs, MI never really looked in control and managed only 175/9. Suryakumar Yadav was their top scorer with 60 runs off 42 balls.
It is still unclear whether Hardik Pandya will continue with Mumbai Indians after the recent developments. The star all-rounder has already become a major talking point ahead of the trade window, with several franchises reportedly interested in taking advantage of the situation.
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