IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians must send Two Players Back Home, Former India star gives Blunt Advice

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have endured a highly disappointing start to their IPL 2026 campaign, managing to secure a victory in just one of their first five matches. While the team has struggled across all departments, it is the bowling unit that has drawn the sharpest criticism.

Leading the brunt of the backlash are pacers Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur, who have consistently leaked runs. Their dismal performances caught the attention of former Indian cricketer and 1983 World Cup winner, Krishnamachari Srikkanth. Known for his blunt and unfiltered cricket analysis, Srikkanth was baffled by the team management's decision to keep playing the out-of-form duo, who currently possess some of the worst economy rates this season.

IPL 2026: MI advised to send Two Players Back Home

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth heavily scrutinized the franchise's retention and selection choices.

"I don't know how MI are playing Deepak Chahar in the XI. I don't know why they retained him. First over, he gave away 21 runs. In the previous match, it was 22 runs. 2.3 overs, 45 runs," Srikkanth pointed out.

He didn't spare Thakur either, adding, "Our sir, Shardul Thakur. 3 overs, 42 runs. Combined, they bowled 5.3 overs and gave away 87 runs."

Questioning the overall strategy of the Mumbai Indians, the veteran cricketer asked, "How can you win a match if two of your important bowlers are giving away 87 runs in 5.3 overs? How can you play both of them in the XI? I asked that question in the pre-match show. Are you saying they don't have any good bowling options?"

Offering a rather straightforward solution to the MI management, Srikkanth advised the franchise to clear the players' salaries and relieve them from the current squad.

"Send them home. Pay them their money and request them to not return this season. Tell them if they are needed, they will be called. Yes, you can do this. It's not wrong," he stated boldly.

In addition to Chahar and Thakur's expensive spells, MI's spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has also had a surprisingly quiet tournament, going wicketless in the first five games. According to Srikkanth, the ace pacer is suffering from burnout and desperately requires some time off.

"Five matches wicketless. He got hit also. He needs a mental break and a physical break. He gave his life and was at the peak of his prowess in the T20 World Cup. He was in the running for the Player of the Tournament award. They are now overburdening him," Srikkanth commented.