Mumbai

Mumbai Indians kept their slim playoff hopes alive in the Indian Premier League 2026 after registering an impressive six-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.

Despite the important win, concerns remain over the form of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, whose performances with the ball have fallen short of expectations this season. Bumrah has managed only three wickets in 10 matches so far and has conceded runs at an economy rate of 8.89, with his bowling average crossing 100 this season.

Speaking on Star Sports, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar said Bumrah appears to be moving away from his natural strengths by experimenting too much.

Gavaskar pointed out that Bumrah is creating wicket-taking opportunities but has not enjoyed the luck usually associated with his bowling. He also observed a drop in pace, changes in length, and an unusual number of no-balls, suggesting that the pacer should simplify his approach and trust the methods that have brought him success in the past. According to Gavaskar, one or two strong performances could help Bumrah quickly regain his rhythm.

In the match, Mumbai elected to bowl first, and Lucknow posted a challenging 228 for five in their 20 overs. Nicholas Pooran led the charge with a blistering 63 off 21 balls, while Mitchell Marsh contributed 44. Himmat Singh remained unbeaten on 40 to guide the visitors to a formidable total.

In reply, Mumbai produced one of their finest batting displays of the season. A commanding 143-run opening partnership between Ryan Rickelton, who smashed 83 off 32 balls, and Rohit Sharma, who struck 84 off 44 deliveries, laid the foundation for the chase as Mumbai reached 229 for four in just 18.4 overs.

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The victory keeps Mumbai mathematically in contention, although they remain near the bottom of the points table, while Lucknow’s playoff hopes have suffered another major setback.