Mumbai Indians has drafted in Keshav Maharaj as a replacement for the injured Mitchell Santner, who has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 with a left shoulder injury.

Maharaj, a seasoned left-arm spinner who has also led South Africa in T20Is, joined the squad ahead of MI’s must-win clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. He was quick to get into the groove, training with the side during Monday’s practice session. He was also involved in a long chat with the leadership group, including Director of Cricket Rahul Sanghvi.

In Santner’s absence, MI has opted for like-for-like replacement, especially in the spin department. Maharaj brings control, game awareness and a proven ability to operate in pressure situations — traits MI has sorely lacked in an inconsistent campaign.

The move, however, adds an interesting dimension to MI’s spin resources. With A.M. Ghazanfar emerging as the lead spinner and Will Jacks waiting in the wings, it remains to be seen how the think-tank integrates Maharaj into the XI.

At 36, Maharaj comes in with pedigree but limited IPL exposure — his only two appearances coming for Rajasthan Royals in 2024. Having gone unsold at the auction last December, this late-season call-up offers both opportunity and urgency.

Published on Apr 27, 2026