IPL 2026: 'They still have the firepower' - Hanuma Vihari backs Mumbai Indians to make playoffs

Former Indian batter Hanuma Vihari has backed the Mumbai Indians to make the playoffs despite their slow start to the tournament in the 2026 Indian Premier League.

The Mumbai Indians were beaten comprehensively by 27 runs by the Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, registering their second loss in two games, having lost to Delhi Capitals prior to this. 

Speaking of the teams in the bottom half of the table, Vihari stated that MI still have the firepower to make the top four, while adding that Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kingswill have to make a herculean effort.

"I think MI will make the top four. They are struggling but still have the firepower. RCB definitely. SRH have to play out of their skin. CSK need some time this year. There are chances they will finish mid-table or once again at the bottom. Something has to work for them. Brevis needs to come back, Dhoni needs to come back, then maybe there is some chance," Vihari said on his YouTube channel.

The Mumbai Indians beat the Kolkata Knight Riders in their opening game and broke their 13-year streak of not winning their opening game. Vihari pointed out how their player were unable to make a mark after this game, and the number of changes they have made to their team in that span, which is unusual of the team.

"For MI, first, Hardik was unavailable. Then he came back and they dropped Santner and Corbin Bosch. There have been wholesale changes which is unlike Mumbai. They make changes here and there but this year they have been making changes. They are struggling. In the batting, Rohit scored runs in the first match but got a start in the second and failed in the third. Consistency is lacking in their batting. In the bowling as well, they are giving away runs in every match. They look like a one-dimensional bowling attack and need to correct it. Bumrah has not been at his best as well," he stated.

The Mumbai Indians return to the Wankhede Stadium to face the in-form Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12.