Mumbai Indians Signs Keshav Maharaj as Replacement For Mitchell Santner IPL 2026 . Mumbai Indians have signed Keshav Maharaj as a replacement for Mitchell Santner in IPL 2026. The franchise confirmed the change after Santner was ruled out of remaining matches. This decision came at a crucial stage of the tournament. Mumbai Indians are fighting to stay alive in the playoff race. The management moved quickly to secure an experienced spinner. Maharaj adds control and depth to the bowling attack. His experience in international cricket could prove vital.
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Santner suffers an injury and his IPL 2026 stats
Santner picked up the injury against Chennai Super Kings at home. The injury happened while attempting a catch near the boundary line. He landed awkwardly and showed immediate discomfort. Medical staff attended him shortly after the incident. Scans later confirmed a shoulder injury, ruling him out. In IPL 2026, Santner played 4 matches for Mumbai Indians. He bowled 84 balls and conceded 125 runs. He picked up 5 wickets with the best figures of 2/16. His bowling average was 25.00 with an economy of 8.92. His strike rate stood at 16.8 in the tournament.
Maharaj brings experience with solid career numbers
Maharaj arrives with strong T20I experience for South Africa. He has played 54 T20Is and taken 55 wickets. He conceded 1447 runs from 1103 balls in his career. His average stands at 26.30 with an economy of 7.87. His strike rate is 20.0, showing consistency. In the IPL, he has played 2 matches for Rajasthan Royals. He picked 2 wickets with the best figures of 2/23. He maintained an economy of 6.50 in those matches. Across his IPL career, he had limited opportunities but remained effective.
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Impact on the Mumbai Indians’ campaign
Santner’s absence affects both bowling balance and lower-order batting. Mumbai Indians must now rethink their playing combination. Maharaj’s inclusion could stabilise the bowling attack. The team is under pressure after inconsistent performances. Every remaining match is crucial for playoff qualification hopes. Mumbai Indians will expect immediate impact from Maharaj. Their season may depend on how well they adjust now.