Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya admitted that his side has struggled to dictate terms in matches during the ongoing IPL 2026 season, stating that the team has often found itself “doing catch-up rather than leading the game,” a reflection of their inconsistent performances so far. Speaking after a recent match, Pandya pointed out that Mumbai Indians have not been able to build momentum either with the bat or ball, often conceding early advantages to opponents and then trying to recover under pressure. He emphasized that in a fast-paced tournament like the IPL, teams that control key phases — particularly the powerplay and death overs — usually come out on top, something MI has failed to do consistently this season. Pandya acknowledged that while the squad possesses experienced players and match-winners, the execution on the field has not matched expectations, leading to situations where the team is forced into reactive cricket rather than proactive planning.

The captain highlighted that losing early wickets or conceding too many runs upfront has repeatedly put the side on the back foot, making it difficult to maintain control over the match. He noted that in several games, Mumbai Indians have had to chase the game instead of setting the tone, which has impacted both confidence and decision-making during crucial moments. Pandya also spoke about the need for better clarity in roles, improved communication, and stronger intent from the first ball, stressing that small mistakes in T20 cricket often have amplified consequences. Despite the challenges, he remained optimistic about a turnaround, stating that the team is working hard behind the scenes to correct its approach and return to winning ways.

The remarks come at a time when Mumbai Indians are under scrutiny from fans and analysts, given their reputation as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history. Pandya’s leadership has also been in focus, with observers debating tactical decisions and on-field strategies. However, the all-rounder maintained that the team environment remains positive and that players are backing each other despite the setbacks. He reiterated that the IPL is a long tournament where momentum can shift quickly, and a couple of strong performances could change the team’s position in the standings.

As the competition progresses, Mumbai Indians will be aiming to address their shortcomings and play more assertive cricket, focusing on taking control early in matches rather than chasing the game. Pandya’s candid assessment reflects both the current struggles and the urgency within the camp to improve, as the team looks to stay in contention and rediscover the dominance that has defined its success in previous seasons.