Mumbai Indians were dealt a fresh injury concern during their IPL 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings after New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner was forced off the field midway through the game.
Santner injured his shoulder while completing a stunning diving catch in the deep to dismiss Kartik Sharma in the 17th over of CSK’s innings. However, the situation raised eyebrows when he was replaced by Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute.
MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene later clarified that Santner’s injury was more serious than it initially appeared.
“I think he hit his head first, neck, obviously the shoulder as well. He went for a scan because once he got back he felt dizzy, so he was lying down. Yes, the icing was there for the shoulder, but he felt that he wasn’t stable,” Jayawardene said after the match.
He further explained that the decision to opt for a concussion substitute was taken after Santner reported dizziness.
“So we took him for a scan in that situation, so we requested (a concussion sub). Obviously, it’s at the match referee’s and umpire’s discretion, so they allowed Shardul,” he added.
Despite the setback, Jayawardene kept the mood light with a humorous remark on the replacement.
“Mitch will be disappointed that his batting power is matched to Shardul Thakur, but it is what it is. Hopefully it’s not too bad. Once he comes back, we will have a look at it,” he quipped.
Santner had already completed his quota of four overs, conceding 44 runs and picking up one wicket. Meanwhile, Thakur failed to make a significant impact with the bat, scoring just six runs as Mumbai Indians slumped to one of their heaviest defeats in IPL history.
