Chennai, May 3 -- Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya did not hold back, admitting their IPL 2026 campaign never really got off the ground after the five-time champions slumped to yet another heavy defeat - an eight-wicket thrashing by Chennai Super Kings here on Saturday.

Mumbai Indians failed to post a challenging total, managing just 159 for 7 with Naman Dhir emerging as the lone standout batter, scoring 57. In reply, CSK chased down the target in 18.1 overs to move to eight points from nine games and keep their playoff hopes alive.

MI face steep climb from here

Mumbai Indians, though not mathematically out of contention, face a steep climb, languishing on four points after seven defeats in nine matches and sitting ninth on the tab...