Mumbai Indians Sign Mahipal Lomror And Ruchit Ahir As Replacements For Injured De Kock And Bawa

Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians confirmed the signings on May 23, 2026, as they prepare to face Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium. Already eliminated from playoff contention, MI will look to finish their campaign on a positive note despite a season marred by injuries.

Player Replacements

Mahipal Lomror: A left-handed batting all-rounder from Rajasthan, Lomror has played 40 IPL matches, scoring 527 runs and taking one wicket. He previously represented Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and was part of Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans squads. He joins MI for ₹50 lakh.

Ruchit Ahir: A 25-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Saurashtra, Ahir has featured in 16 List A matches and 12 T20s, scoring 360 runs in List A and 333 runs in T20s. He impressed MI scouts during the DY Patil T20 Cup 2026 and joins for ₹30 lakh.

Injury Details

Quinton de Kock: Sustained a tendon injury in his left wrist before MI’s game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 29.

Raj Angad Bawa: Ruled out after a ligament tear in his right thumb during the clash against Punjab Kings on May 14.

Both players featured in only three matches each this season.

Strategic Impact

Lomror adds middle-order stability and spin-bowling depth, while Ahir provides backup wicketkeeping and batting options.

Despite being out of playoff contention, MI’s management emphasized the importance of finishing strong and testing new talent.

Their final game against Rajasthan Royals could influence playoff qualification scenarios for other teams.

Match Context

MI currently sit ninth on the points table with eight points from 12 games.

A win against Rajasthan Royals would deny RR automatic playoff qualification, opening opportunities for other franchises.

Squad Update Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Mahipal Lomror replaces Quinton de Kock for ₹50 lakh

•⁠  ⁠Ruchit Ahir replaces Raj Angad Bawa for ₹30 lakh

•⁠  ⁠De Kock ruled out with wrist tendon injury

•⁠  ⁠Bawa sidelined with thumb ligament tear

•⁠  ⁠Lomror brings IPL experience with 527 runs in 40 matches

•⁠  ⁠Ahir impressed in DY Patil T20 Cup, joins MI for debut IPL season

•⁠  ⁠MI face Rajasthan Royals in their final league game at Wankhede

Sources: India TV News, Zee News, News18, The Statesman, Cricbuzz, NDTV Sports