Mitchell Santner ruled out of IPL 2026; Keshav Maharaj named replacement

In a major setback for Mumbai Indians, all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 due to a shoulder injury.

🩺 Injury Details

Santner suffered the injury while fielding during a match against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. The incident occurred when he attempted a catch near the boundary and landed awkwardly on his shoulder.

Despite initial treatment, the injury proved serious enough to rule him out for the rest of the tournament.

📊 Santner’s IPL 2026 Performance

• Played limited matches this season
• Picked up a handful of wickets (5 wickets in 4 matches)
• Provided balance as a spin-bowling all-rounder

His absence comes as a blow for MI, who are already struggling for consistency this season.

🔁 Replacement – Keshav Maharaj

Mumbai Indians have signed South African spinner Keshav Maharaj as Santner’s replacement for the remainder of IPL 2026.

• Experienced left-arm orthodox spinner
• Previously played in the IPL (with Rajasthan Royals)
• Known for control, accuracy, and ability to build pressure

Maharaj joins the squad for a reported fee of ₹75 lakh.

🔍 What This Means for Mumbai Indians

• Loss of Santner weakens MI’s spin-bowling depth and lower-order batting
• Maharaj brings experience but lacks recent IPL exposure
• Adds pressure on MI’s bowling unit as they look to recover their campaign