Mumbai: Chennai Super Kings achieved their largest victory in IPL history with a 103-run win over Mumbai Indians in the 33rd match of IPL 2026. While it was a dominant display by CSK, the focus among fans on social media was primarily on Shardul Thakur’s unexpected appearance at the crease, despite not being listed in the starting XI and with MI having already utilized Danish Malewar as an impact player.
Thakur was brought into the match as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner, who sustained an injury while fielding. Santner had made a catch to dismiss Kartik Sharma in the 17th over of MI’s bowling innings but landed heavily on his shoulder, requiring treatment from the physiotherapist.
During the second innings, Santner continued to receive treatment for his shoulder injury. However, questions arose as to how Thakur was allowed to bat as a concussion substitute.
The situation stemmed from an incident during Santner’s catch, where his head struck the ground. Although initially overlooked, the severity of this head impact became apparent during the innings break when Santner reported feeling dizzy, leading to his removal from the game for concussion assessment.
Shardul Thakur batted at number eight, scoring only six runs off 12 balls. By the time he came to bat, the match was more or less decided, with MI struggling at 85/6 in the 13th over. He was dismissed by Anshul Kamboj, who finished the match with figures of 1/10 in three overs.
Fans raised concerns that MI was permitted a concussion substitute due to a shoulder injury, leading to criticism aimed at the franchise and match officials. In defense of the team, head coach Mahela Jayawardene clarified, “He hit his head first and neck. Obviously, the shoulder as well. He went for a scan. Once he got back, he felt dizziness. So, he was lying down. Yes, the ice was there for the shoulder. But he felt he wasn’t stable. So, we took him for a scan. We requested for a concussion substitute. Obviously, it is the match referee and the umpires’ discretion. They allowed Shardul.”
This incident has sparked extensive discussion among fans and analysts alike.
