IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians sign Two New Players ahead of Dead Rubber

Mumbai Indians (MI), are gearing up to face the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their final league stage match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.

The high-stakes encounter for the visiting Royals is scheduled to take place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. However, for the home side, the match holds little tournament significance other than salvaging pride.

Despite that, MI have roped in a couple of players ahead of the final match. It has been a season to forget for the Mumbai Indians. As they head into their final league match against Rajasthan, Mumbai currently languishes in 9th position on the IPL 2026 points table.

Compounding their miserable season, Mumbai Indians have suffered two massive injury blows. Star South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has been completely ruled out due to a tendon injury in his left wrist. He sustained the injury after being hit on the wrist during a practice session ahead of MI’s home game against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 29. He had featured in only three matches this season, opening his campaign with a breathtaking unbeaten 112 against the Punjab Kings on April 16 before last playing against Chennai Super Kings on April 23.

Similarly, pace-bowling all-rounder Raj Angad Bawa’s season has also come to a premature end. Bawa suffered a ligament tear in his right thumb during MI’s previous encounter against the Punjab Kings on May 14. He made three appearances for the franchise this season before the unfortunate injury.

MI Replacements: Mahipal Lomror and Ruchit Ahir Step In

To fill the void left by the injured duo for the remainder of their campaign, the Mumbai Indians have officially signed Mahipal Lomror and Ruchit Ahir.

As per the IPL guidelines, the franchise was permitted to seek injury replacements, moving quickly to secure both seasoned and fresh domestic talent. Mahipal Lomror, a 26-year-old left-handed batting all-rounder from Rajasthan, joins the squad for Rs 50 lakh. Having previously represented the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru across 40 IPL matches, Lomror brings valuable middle-order experience and handy spin-bowling capabilities to the dugout.

Joining him is 25-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Ruchit Ahir from Saurashtra, who was signed for Rs 30 lakh. Ahir has featured in 16 List A matches and 12 T20s in his domestic career so far.