Hardik Pandya missed the match because he wasn't feeling well. Suryakumar Yadav mentioned this at the toss when leading the team in Pandya's absence.
Hardik Pandya Skips MI's Practice Session: 2027 World Cup Duties Revealed
Hardik Pandya has intensified his training, concentrating on being fully prepared to bowl his complete 10-over quota in ODIs whenever called upon.

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, leading Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026, skipped the two afternoon practice sessions ahead of MI's match against Delhi Capitals, today. At time of the toss, Suryakumar Yadav, leading MI against Delhi in Hardik's absence, revealed that Hardik is not part of the playing XI as he 'isn't well'.
However, it appears like there's a bigger reason behind this break: the Indian cricket team management has tasked Pandya with preparing to bowl his full quota of 10 overs in the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup.
Since 2023, Team India has dominated ICC events. In the last ODI World Cup held in India in 2023, India reached the final but lost to Australia, a result that still resonates with fans. With the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, preparations are already underway, and Pandya has been earmarked for a big role.
Increased Workload for World Cup
Hardik Pandya has stepped up his training regimen, specifically focusing on being ready to deliver his full 10 overs in ODIs whenever required. According to Times of India, team India management wants him to be fully capable of bowling 10 overs on the fast and bouncy pitches of South Africa (venue of ODI World Cup 2027), even if he might usually bowl only seven in most matches.
A BCCI source explained: "Pandya brings crucial balance to the team, especially on South African wickets. He must instill confidence in the management and selectors that he can deliver the full 10 overs when the situation demands. He has also worked extensively on his bowling action to maintain pace and effectiveness across his variations."
With his workload carefully managed, Pandya is poised to play a key role for India in the next ODI World Cup while leading Mumbai Indians in the ongoing IPL.
Also on ABP Live | Hardik Pandya Out Of DC vs MI IPL 2026 Match; Suryakumar Yadav Provides Health Update
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Hardik Pandya miss the Mumbai Indians match against Delhi Capitals?
What is the main reason for Hardik Pandya's increased training focus?
The Indian team management wants Pandya to be fully prepared to bowl his complete quota of 10 overs for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
What is the significance of Pandya bowling 10 overs for the 2027 ODI World Cup?
Pandya's ability to bowl 10 overs is crucial for team balance, especially on South African pitches. Management needs confidence in his bowling capacity.
What adjustments has Hardik Pandya made to his bowling?
He has worked extensively on his bowling action to maintain pace and effectiveness across his variations for the upcoming World Cup.





















