Struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) made a good start against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday (April 29) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. At the Wankhede Stadium, the opening pair of Will Jacques and Ryan Rickleton scored 93 runs in 7.1 overs. This new opening pair of MI batted fearlessly in the powerplay. Due to injuries to Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock, Will Jacques got a chance to play his first match of this season and he scored 46 runs in 22 balls at a strike rate of 209.09, which included 5 fours and 3 sixes.

Rickleton, who was returning to the playing XI, played an explosive inning of 123 runs unbeaten in 55 balls. Rickleton hit 10 fours and 8 sixes during this period. Rickleton scored a century in 44 balls, which is the record for the fastest century for MI. So much so that he made the record of playing the biggest individual innings for MI, due to which MI made its third highest score (243/5).

Now only Rohit will open for MI?

MI’s veteran opener Rohit Sharma retired hurt due to a hamstring strain against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 12. Since then he has been away from the field. He may return in MI’s next match. In Rohit’s absence, MI first tried Rickleton with de Kock and then Danish Malewar but could not get a good start. Against SRH, when De Kock was also unavailable for selection due to a wrist injury, MI sent Rickleton and Will Jacques to open.

This pair has not disappointed the MI management but has given them a sweet headache. Now it remains to be seen who will be removed from the opening slot when Rohit Sharma becomes fit. It is likely that Will Jacques will be pushed back in the batting order. He was seen batting in the lower order for MI last season. Earlier this year, he also played the role of finisher for England in the T20 World Cup.