India, May 9 -- Mumbai Indians (MI) face a race against time regarding the fitness of their captain, Hardik Pandya, ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 encounter against the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The match, scheduled for Sunday, May 10, in Raipur, is a must-win fixture for the five-time champions as they look to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Hardik Under Medical Observation

Hardik's participation remains shrouded in uncertainty following a back spasm that sidelined him during MI's previous league match against Lucknow Super Giants on May 4. In a media update released on the eve of the game, the franchise confirmed that their skipper is still under the watchful eye of the medical staff.

"Hardik continues ...