Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians have suffered a major blow as New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a left shoulder injury, with South African spinner Keshav Maharaj named as his replacement.
Santner sustained the injury during MI’s clash against Chennai Super Kings on April 23, while attempting a catch near the boundary. Though he completed the catch, dismissing Kartik Sharmahe , walked off in visible discomfort and was replaced by Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute.
Head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirmed that Santner had also hit his head on the ground and experienced dizziness. In four matches this season, the Kiwi all-rounder claimed five wickets and scored 26 runs.
Maharaj, one of South Africa’s most experienced spinners, has taken 191 wickets across 218 T20 matches at an average of 27.63. He joins the squad for a reported fee of ₹75 lakh, having previously represented Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024.
Mumbai Indians, currently ninth on the points table with two wins and five losses, face Sunrisers Hyderabad next at Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday.
