IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians sign Punjab all-rounder as Atharva Ankolekar replacement

Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed Punjab all-rounder Krish Bhagat as a replacement for the injured Atharva Ankolekar for the rest of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. 

Ankolekar, hailing from the city of Mumbai, was picked up by MI in the most recent mini auction for his base price of INR 30 lakhs. The 25-year-old, however, did not make a single appearance before his unfortunate injury.

As a replacement, the five-time champions have brought in Bhagat. The 21-year-old has not played a single professional T20 game in his young cricketing career so far. MI, however, know Bhagat really well. The Punjab all-rounder has featured for the Reliance Team at the DY Patil T20 Cup in 2026. He has since then been the franchise’s support bowler for net sessions since the beginning of pre-season.

Despite not playing the shortest format of the game in his professional career, Bhagat has made seven First-Class appearances and played nine List A matches for Punjab after making his debut back in 2024. 

The right-hander has one half-century to his name in List A cricket, coming against Uttarakhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy towards the backend of last year. 

“Krish has consistently impressed the coaching staff with his dedication, work ethic, and the quality he brings in every session and in the practice games that he has played for Mumbai Indians. His commitment and development over the years, both in domestic and at Mumbai Indians practise sessions this season have earned him this well-deserved opportunity to transition into the main squad,” read Mumbai Indians’ official statement.

It is worth mentioning that MI are well known for giving young players their big chance in the IPL, with the likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Krunal Pandya getting their break in a MI shirt before becoming some of the best players in the league. Should Bhagat impress the management, there is no reason why he cannot make his IPL debut this year and make the cricketing fraternity take note of him.