As the Mumbai Indians prepare to take on the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the balance could finally tilt in Mumbai’s favour. With both teams looking to start strong after inconsistent campaigns last season, Pathan feels MI have the edge this time around. The biggest factor, according to Pathan, is the return of Jasprit Bumrah from the very start of the tournament.

The ace pacer had missed the early part of previous seasons due to injury, and his absence was deeply felt in MI’s bowling attack. “MI and KKR lost both their opening games last season. But I think things will change and Mumbai will have an upper hand this time. The biggest reason is the return of Bumrah,” Irfan Pathan said.

He also highlighted the confidence boost within the squad, thanks to the presence of multiple T20 World Cup-winning players.

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“In the last two seasons, Bumrah wasn’t there at the start. This time he will be there. You also have five strong leaders in your ranks and also World Cup winners,” he added. Irfan Pathan also stressed the importance of fully utilising Rohit Sharma, not just as a batter but as a leader on the field. With Rohit fitter than before, he believes MI should move away from using him only as an impact substitute.

“I feel it is very important for Rohit to be on the field. He is a lot fitter now and they will expect him to score runs again,” Irfan Pathan said. Turning his attention to KKR, Pathan pointed out that team combination could be a concern. He identified key players like Finn Allen, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cameron Green as crucial to their chances. “It remains to be seen how Kolkata will bring in a winning combination,” he noted.

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Irfan Pathan also raised questions around KKR’s bowling depth, especially in the pace department, while emphasising the need for Varun Chakravarthy to rediscover form alongside Sunil Narine. With strengths and uncertainties on both sides, the MI vs KKR clash promises to be a fascinating contest shaped by key individual performances and tactical decisions.