Mumbai Indians Secure Keshav Maharaj as Santner's Replacement in IPL 2026

Mumbai Indians Make a Strategic Move

Mumbai: The Mumbai Indians, a five-time IPL champion, have officially signed South African spinner Keshav Maharaj to fill the void left by Mitchell Santner, who is sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained in a recent match.

In a statement released on Monday, the Mumbai Indians confirmed Maharaj's signing, emphasizing that Santner will not participate in IPL 2026 due to his injury.

The franchise expressed their best wishes for Santner's swift recovery and hopes to see him back on the field soon.

Keshav Maharaj is recognized as one of South Africa's leading spinners across all formats. Known for his precise control and ability to apply pressure, he has been a reliable member of the Proteas since his international debut in 2016. Notably, he was included in South Africa's squad for the 2021 T20 World Cup despite not having played a T20 international prior, making his debut as captain against Sri Lanka and taking a wicket with his first delivery.

As a captain in both national and franchise cricket, Maharaj has excelled in his last 30 T20 matches, claiming 31 wickets with a personal best of 3 for 15.

The Mumbai Indians welcomed Keshav to their team, highlighting that his passion, skill, and experience align perfectly with the team's ethos, particularly his discipline and ability to perform under pressure.

So far in IPL 2026, Santner has participated in four matches, taking five wickets while conceding 125 runs.