Mumbai Indians Grapple with Skipper Pandya's Absence

Mumbai Indians' skipper Hardik Pandya was absent from the squad traveling to Raipur for their upcoming IPL match due to a back spasm. With the team facing a must-win situation, Pandya's health remains a concern. The team is traveling in batches due to limited flight options.

Mumbai Indians are facing a tough challenge without their skipper, Hardik Pandya, who is sidelined with a back spasm. The squad, preparing for a crucial Indian Premier League match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, traveled to Raipur in separate batches on Wednesday.

Pandya's absence is due to rest recommended for the minor injury he sustained, which kept him out of the previous game against Lucknow Super Giants. As the team finds itself ninth on the points table, losing is not an option if they aim to qualify for the playoffs.

Team logistics also play a role as limited flights from Mumbai to Raipur necessitate staggered travel. Vice-captain Suryakumar Yadav stepped up to lead in Pandya's absence, while the team and fans await the skipper's return for the critical match at Raipur's Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium.