IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed 21-year-old Punjab seamer Krish Bhagat as a replacement for injured all-rounder Atharva Ankolekar for the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. Bhagat joins the franchise at his base price of Rs 30 lakh after Ankolekar failed to recover in time from a knee injury sustained during the domestic season earlier this year.

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Who is Krish Bhagat?

Bhagat is no stranger to the Mumbai Indians environment. He has been part of the franchise’s trials over the past two years and represented the Reliance team in the DY Patil T20 Cup earlier this year. He also worked as a support bowler during MI’s pre-season preparations for IPL 2026.

For Punjab, the right-arm pacer has played seven first-class matches and nine List A games, claiming nine wickets in the 50-over format, with best figures of 3 for 33 in December 2025. He has also contributed with the bat, scoring a half-century from No. 8 in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Uttarakhand.

In an official statement, the franchise said Bhagat earned his place in the squad through consistent effort and strong performances in training.

“Krish has consistently impressed the coaching staff with his dedication, work ethic, and the quality he brings to every session and practice games,” the franchise said. “His commitment and development over the years have earned him this well-deserved opportunity to transition into the main squad.”

Mumbai Indians are currently ninth on the IPL 2026 points table, with one win and three defeats so far this season.