Published on: Apr 28, 2026 4:04 pm IST|Updated on: Apr 28, 2026 4:04 pm IST
Mumbai Indians have officially signed South African spinner Keshav Maharaj as an injury replacement for New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, who has been ruled out of IPL 2026 following a shoulder injury. The move comes at a crucial juncture for MI, who are struggling to find momentum this season.
Mitchell Santner’s injury occurred during Mumbai’s heavy defeat to Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede. Attempting a diving catch near the boundary, Santner landed awkwardly on his left shoulder and also struck his head on the turf. He was immediately substituted under concussion protocols, with scans later confirming both shoulder damage and instability. Santner had featured in four matches this season, picking up five wickets, but his absence left a significant gap in MI’s spin department.
To fill that void, Mumbai turned to Keshav Maharaj, one of South Africa’s most experienced left-arm spinners. At 36, Maharaj brings a wealth of international and franchise cricket experience, having played over 200 T20 matches and taken more than 190 wickets at an economy rate of just over seven. He has also captained South Africa in T20Is, showcasing leadership qualities that MI will value in high-pressure situations. Maharaj’s IPL exposure is limited, with a brief stint at Rajasthan Royals in 2024, but his recent performances in the SA20 league underline his consistency and control.
Mumbai Indians, currently ninth on the points table with just two wins from seven games, are in desperate need of stability. Their bowling attack has lacked bite, and Santner’s injury only compounded their problems. Maharaj’s inclusion is expected to provide control in the middle overs, especially on batting-friendly surfaces like Wankhede, where variation and discipline are key. His ability to operate under pressure and contain aggressive batting line-ups could be pivotal in turning MI’s campaign around.
The timing of his arrival is significant, as MI prepare to face Sunrisers Hyderabad at home on April 29. SRH are in red-hot form, riding a winning streak, and Maharaj’s role will be crucial in curbing their batting firepower. For MI, this signing is not just about replacing Santner—it is about injecting experience, composure, and tactical flexibility into a side desperate to revive its season.
While Santner’s injury was a setback, the addition of Keshav Maharaj offers Mumbai Indians a chance to regroup and strengthen their bowling unit. With the playoffs slipping out of reach, every match now carries added weight, and Maharaj’s impact will be closely watched as MI fight to keep their campaign alive.
Mumbai Indians haven’t been at their best this season. After 7 games this season, they have managed only 2 wins and have lost 5. They last played against their arch-rivals, Chennai Super Kings, at the Wankhede and succumbed to a 103-run defeat. With their season half done, MI needs to win at least 6 of their 7 remaining games. Check out Mumbai Indians’ remaining fixtures:-
Tags: IPL 2026