The Mumbai Indians have roped in South African spin-bowling all-rounder Keshav Maharaj as a replacement for injured New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.
Santner has been ruled out after sustaining a left shoulder injury during MI's recent clash against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. The injury occurred while he attempted a diving catch near the boundary, during which he landed awkwardly on his shoulder and head. Although he completed the catch-dismissing Kartik Sharma off Jasprit Bumrah, the impact forced him off the field, and he was later replaced by Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute.
Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirmed that Santner experienced
dizziness after the incident and was taken for scans. "He hit his head first, then the neck and shoulder. He wasn't feeling stable, so we had to get him checked," Jayawardene said after the match.
Maharaj Adds Experience to MI Spin Attack
Maharaj, a seasoned left-arm spinner and a key figure in South Africa's white-ball setup, joins the squad for a reported fee of INR 75 lakh. He recently featured in a T20I series against New Zealand and brings valuable international experience to the MI camp. While he has limited IPL exposure, having played two matches for Rajasthan Royals in 2024, his control and tactical acumen could prove vital in the latter stages of the tournament.
The move adds depth and variety to Mumbai's spin department, which already includes emerging talent A.M. Ghazanfar, while all-rounder Will Jacks remains an additional option. How the team management integrates Maharaj into the playing XI will be a key talking point in the coming matches.
Mumbai Indians are set to face the Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next fixture as they look to maintain momentum despite the setback of losing Santner.
