Mumbai Indians likely to back Deepak Chahar as reports hint at Will Jacks’ exit

Mumbai Indians, the five-time IPL champions, are preparing their squad ahead of the official announcement of retained and released players on November 15. All teams will reveal their final lists on Saturday, but many franchises are already busy in the trading window. Mumbai Indians are actively making changes too, and early reports suggest that they have decided to retain Indian all-rounder Deepak Chahar for the 2026 season.

There had been strong rumours that Chahar might be released, especially after Mumbai Indians signed Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants in an all-cash trade. Many believed that with Thakur’s arrival, Chahar could lose his spot in the team. However, according to reports, the franchise has decided to continue with Chahar, who joined them before IPL 2025 for a high price of ₹9.25 crore.

Deepak Chahar’s performance and future role with MI

Deepak Chahar did not perform as well as expected in the previous IPL season. He managed only 11 wickets in 14 innings during IPL 2025. His economy rate was on the higher side at 9.17, and his average was 34.18, which reflects that he struggled to make consistent breakthroughs and contain runs. Because of these numbers, there were discussions about whether the team would keep him for the next season.

However, Mumbai Indians seem to believe that Chahar still has value as a new-ball bowler and a lower-order batting option. MI has always been known for backing players they believe can improve, and Chahar might be one such case. His ability to swing the ball early in the innings and deliver key overs makes him a useful option in Indian conditions.

Now, with Shardul Thakur also in the squad, it will be interesting to see how the team manages both bowlers. They have similar skills—both can bowl during powerplay overs, both can bat, and both are considered all-rounders. The competition between the two might push them to perform better, giving the team more strength and flexibility.

On the other hand, Mumbai Indians are reportedly going to release England all-rounder Will Jacks. This comes as a surprise to many fans because Jacks had shown promise in the previous season. Cricbuzz reported that the franchise is planning to let him go despite his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.

Jacks scored 233 runs in 11 innings during IPL 2025, with a strong strike rate of 135.46. He even hit a half-century and provided power in the middle order. With the ball, he took six wickets in eight innings, showing he could be a handy bowler as well. His economy of 8.57 and strike rate of 14 were considered decent, making his release an unexpected move.

The decision may be linked to Mumbai Indians reshuffling their overseas combination. Teams are required to balance their foreign and local players, and Jacks might not fit into MI’s long-term plans. The franchise may want to invest in all-rounders who are more suited to specific roles or match-ups, especially with the changing strategies and newer rules expected in upcoming IPL seasons.

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MI strengthens squad by trading for Sherfane Rutherford

Another important move by Mumbai Indians is their trade for West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford. The deal was made with Gujarat Titans, bringing Rutherford back to the franchise he was once part of in 2020. Interestingly, he did not get a chance to play even a single match during his previous stint with MI. But this time, the team seems more confident in his abilities.

Rutherford is known for his aggressive batting and the ability to change the momentum of a match very quickly. His left-handed power hitting in the lower middle order can help Mumbai finish games strongly. MI described him in their official welcome statement as a player with explosive batting talent and someone who can play impactful cameos when needed.

He can also bowl right-arm fast-medium, giving the team an extra bowling option. This kind of versatility is something MI values highly. Both his batting and bowling skills can help balance the squad and add depth in crucial situations. His return to Mumbai Indians shows that the team is looking for dynamic players who fit into their fast-paced and aggressive style of cricket.

As the final announcement day approaches, fans are excited to see what the franchise’s full list of retained and released players will look like. Mumbai Indians have always been strategic with their squad decisions, often focusing on long-term planning rather than short-term reactions. Their choices this year seem to follow the same pattern.

By retaining Deepak Chahar, possibly releasing Will Jacks, and bringing in Sherfane Rutherford, MI appears to be shaping a squad that combines stability, experience, and explosive talent. Once the official list is out on November 15, the picture will become clearer, but early signals suggest that Mumbai Indians are preparing thoughtfully for IPL 2026.