Ravichandran Ashwin: Mumbai Indians Won't Qualify For IPL 2026 Playoffs Despite Six Remaining Games

Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed serious doubts over Mumbai Indians’ chances of reaching the IPL 2026 playoffs, saying the five-time champions are unlikely to recover from their poor start to the season. Mumbai have lost six of their first eight matches, including a six-wicket defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad after posting 243/5 at Wankhede Stadium. The result has left the Hardik Pandya-led side needing victories in all six remaining league games to stay in realistic contention.

Historically, 16 points has often been enough to secure a playoff berth in the Indian Premier League, meaning the Mumbai Indians now face a near must-win scenario. Even if they win all remaining matches, qualification could still depend on net run rate and results involving rival teams. Their campaign has been marked by inconsistency in both batting and bowling, preventing momentum from building.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he was surprised by Mumbai’s struggles this season and admitted he felt sympathy for a team he had backed before the tournament. He said Mumbai repeatedly appeared capable of turning matches around but failed to convert those opportunities into wins. According to Ashwin, the side has not shown the balance usually associated with successful Mumbai Indians teams.

Also Read: Gavaskar Says Mumbai Need A Perfect Finish To Remain In IPL 2026 Contention.

He pointed to specific concerns in both departments. Ashwin noted that Mumbai conceded 220 against Kolkata Knight Riders, a total he said no other side had allowed against them. He also said the team have struggled while chasing substantial targets, citing their inability to pursue 208 against Chennai Super Kings. In his view, when wickets offer assistance, the batting falters, and when surfaces are flat, the bowling comes under pressure.

Captain Hardik Pandya also acknowledged after the Sunrisers defeat that the team had fallen below the standards expected of the franchise. Despite Ryan Rickelton’s unbeaten 123 off 55 balls powering Mumbai to 243/5, the bowlers could not defend the total. Sunrisers Hyderabad chased the target with eight balls remaining, led by major contributions from Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen, Abhishek Sharma, and Salil Arora.

Mumbai Indians remain mathematically alive, but the margin for error has effectively disappeared. They now require a dramatic turnaround, consistent performances, and favourable external results to keep their season alive. With six losses already recorded, IPL 2026 has become one of the most challenging campaigns in recent years for one of the league’s most decorated franchises.

Also Read: Ex-Mumbai Indians Coach Responds To Hardik Pandya Critics In IPL 2026 Debate