Mumbai Faces Injury Concerns as Shardul and Sarfaraz Battle Fitness Issues

A significant loss to Maharashtra has complicated Mumbai’s path in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. After winning its first four matches, the team needed a decisive victory to secure a spot in the knockout stage. However, the 128-run defeat has impacted its Net Run Rate, leaving Mumbai in a position where it must win at least one of its two remaining games and improve its NRR.

As Mumbai prepares for crucial matches against Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, concerns linger over the fitness of captain Shardul Thakur, who sustained a calf injury and underwent a scan on Saturday. Sources suggest Thakur might miss the game against Himachal on Tuesday. Additionally, Sarfaraz Khan’s fitness is in question after missing the match against Maharashtra due to quadriceps pain, for which he also underwent scans.

During the game against Maharashtra, Shardul bowled only six overs before leaving the field. He later attempted to bat but appeared uncomfortable, managing just five deliveries. According to sources from Sportstar, doctors have advised Shardul to rest. Even if he sits out the Himachal game, he will remain in Jaipur under the watchful eye of team doctors, who will decide on his future availability based on his recovery.

Shardul has been a key player for Mumbai, taking 11 wickets in five games. Despite the batting-friendly pitches in Jaipur, he has consistently performed for the team. Sarfaraz has also been instrumental, scoring 220 runs in three innings.

In a positive turn for Mumbai, Indian internationals Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shivam Dube are set to join the team by Monday and are expected to be available for the upcoming matches.

Published on Jan 04, 2026.