Mumbai Indians In 2026, they had one of the most disappointing seasons in IPL history, with just four wins from 14 matches and ninth in the points table. A campaign riddled with inconsistency, lackluster performances and questionable team formations has forced the five-time champions to rethink their strategy. IPL 2027. With a major rebuild seemingly on the cards, several players could be left out of the franchise’s plans as MI look to return to their glory days. Let’s take a look at some of the players who could be released before next season.
5 players who could be released by MI before IPL 2027
1) Hardik Pandya
The biggest talk surrounding Mumbai Indians is the captain’s uncertain future Hardik Pandya. After returning to the franchise as skipper, Hardik found himself under constant scrutiny from fans and pundits alike. Mumbai’s struggles in the last few seasons have added to the pressure on the all-rounder. Reports and pundits suggest that both the player and the franchise could be open to moving in different directions after a difficult 2026 campaign. The leadership experience has not produced the desired results, and there are growing indications that a fresh start could benefit both parties.
If MI decides to part ways with Hardik, it will mark the end of a much-discussed chapter in the franchise’s history. A release or trade before IPL 2027 cannot be ruled out.
2) Trent Boult
New Zealand veteran pacer Trent Boult returned to Mumbai Indians with high expectations, but IPL 2026 turned out to be a season to quickly forget the left-armer. Boult played only five matches and managed only two wickets. His economy rate of 11.62 was more worrying, making it difficult for MI to control the opposition batting at crucial stages of the innings.
At 36 and carrying a significant wage bill, Mumbai may think investing in young fast bowling options would be a smarter long-term move. Although Boult remains a respected T20 bowler, his recent numbers make him a strong candidate for release.
3) Deepak Chahar
Mumbai Indians invested heavily Deepak Chahar Hoping to form a strong partnership with Jasprit Bumrah and provide early breakthroughs.
But injuries and inconsistent performances once again affected his campaign. Chahar picked up just eight wickets in eight matches while conceding runs at an economy of over ten runs per over. The right-arm pacer has traditionally been most effective during the power play, but his inability to strike consistently with the new ball exposed Mumbai. Given the price tag and recurring fitness concerns, MI may decide to move on and look for a more reliable pace option.
4) Mahipal Lomror
Mahipal Lomror He joined Mumbai Indians at the end of the season as an injury replacement and was never seen as a long-term solution. The left-handed batsman brought in-house experience to the squad, but his signing was made to fill an immediate void rather than being a key part of MI’s future plans.
As franchises typically reassess squads after disappointing campaigns, temporary replacement signings are often among the first players released. Hence, Lomror may find himself back in the auction pool ahead of IPL 2027.
5) Mayank Markande
Mumbai Indians were hoping to bring back the leg spinner Mayank Markande would help strengthen their spin section. The move created excitement among fans who remembered his impressive performances for the franchise in previous seasons.
Unfortunately, the meeting did not go according to plan. Markande played only three games and failed to take a single wicket. He also struggled with control and was heavily targeted by the opposition whenever he attacked.
With MI continuing to look for a reliable rotation option, the franchise may decide to explore alternative options instead of continuing with Markande.
A major overhaul is expected before IPL 2027
Mumbai Indians are expected to enter IPL 2027 with a significantly different squad. If Pandya goes, the leadership responsibilities may shift to established stars jasprit bumrah or Suryakumar Yadavwhile Tilak Varma may emerge as a long-term leadership prospect.
After a disappointing season, the MI management is faced with several important decisions. Dropping the underperforming players could be the first step in building a squad that can once again challenge for the title in IPL 2027.
Also READ: Suryakumar Yadav breaks silence on injury speculation after MI’s early IPL 2026 exit
