Former Indian all-rounder Sanjay Bangar questioned Suryakumar Yadav’s batting approach after Mumbai Indians suffered an 18-run loss against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on Sunday.

SKY was dismissed after scoring 33 runs off 22 balls against RCB with the help of five fours. Bangar highlighted that Yadav is trying to play differently and he should try to play bolder shots. The Mumbai batter has scored 106 runs in four matches of IPL 2026 at an average of 26.50 and a strike rate of 153.62.

Bangar also noted that Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir haven’t been able to deliver for MI thus far.

Sanjay Bangar said on ESPN Cricinfo, “The powerplay was quite good, they got to 65-odd. You have to look at how Suryakumar is batting. Suryakumar is probably looking to bat a little differently. He is not attempting bolder shots at the start of the innings. If Surya is not going to bat in that fashion despite chasing tall scores… Tilak is not kicking on and you are probably not getting enough from Naman Dhir as well.”

On the other hand, former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu believes MI skipper Hardik Pandya is trying to hit everything straight. Pandya scored 40 runs off 22 balls against RCB.

Rayudu said, “They are not in great form. They really need to up their standards. These are certified match-winners, who are not really delivering for the franchise. Their shot selection is not great. Tilak looked very tentative. Hardik is trying to hit everything straight. He is dragging a lot of balls straight or to the onside. All these guys need to put their hands up if MI need to make a comeback this season. They are definitely below par at this point in time.”

Mumbai Indians will next take on Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on Thursday.