IPL: 3 MI players who should receive a better pay in IPL 2026

The Mumbai Indians (MI) are renowned for their talented teams and commitment to developing the next generation of athletes. However, despite the fame of well-known people, a number of significant contributors are frequently overlooked. With IPL 2026 on the horizon, MI may need to revisit their contract priorities to retain and motivate their emerging core.

Consistent usefulness, key situations, and adaptability are frequently more important than star power in high-stakes competitions like the IPL. Players who exhibit these qualities should be compensated. In addition to improving morale, fair compensation guarantees long-term team balance and depth of performance.

Here are the 3 MI players who should receive a better pay in IPL 2026:

1. Ryan Rickelton

With 388 runs with a strike rate of 150.97 in 14 games, South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton made an impression. He achieved a maximum score of 62*. He is a versatile top-order option because of his ability to rotate strike and accelerate late. He was also very clean behind the stumps as the wicketkeeper.

Rickelton, who was reasonably priced, showed himself to be dependable against spin and pace. He deserves a significant rise for 2026 because of his reliable starts and composed demeanor under duress.

2. Ashwani Kumar

Ashwani Kumar claimed 11 wickets in 7 games, including a crucial 4/24 on his IPL debut. He provided MI balance in both pace-heavy and spin-oriented attacks and was well-known for his control in the powerplay. Since Jasprit Bumrah missed the first four games, he did a good job of keeping the bowling together.

Ashwani has shown tremendous improvement despite playing a supporting role to experienced quicks. An increase in salary would be commensurate with his growing reputation as a reliable Indian bowler.

3. Mitchell Santner

Santner was MI's most economical bowler in the 2025 IPL, taking 10 wickets at an economy rate of 7.92 in 13 games. In the middle overs, his left-arm spin provided much-needed control and frequently stopped runs during crucial moments. 3/11 was his best bowling performance.

Santner played well above his pay grade, adding value as a lower-order batsman and a seasoned international cricket player. MI ought to give him a bigger IPL 2026 deal in recognition of his consistency.

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