IPL 2026: Why concussion sub for a shoulder injury? Mahela Jayawardene explains
Mumbai Indians faced controversy in their IPL 2026 loss to Chennai Super Kings after using Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner. Coach Mahela Jayawardene defended the decision, citing a head injury, though Santner later wore a shoulder sling. The debate overshadowed MI's continued struggles on the field.
A one-sided clash at the Wankhede Stadium turned into a major talking point after Mumbai Indians’ controversial use of a concussion substitute during their 103-run defeat to Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. While Sanju Samson’s unbeaten century and Akeal Hosein’s four-wicket haul powered CSK to a commanding win, the spotlight shifted to the unusual introduction of Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner. Shardul for Santner: MI coach Jayawardene explains decision Santner suffered an injury in the 17th over while completing a low catch, appearing to hurt his shoulder.
However, replays later suggested his head also made contact with the ground. He was subsequently taken for scans and did not return to the field. Addressing the controversy, MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene defended the decision.
“Santner hit his head first, the neck and obviously, the shoulder as well. He then went for a scan. Once he got back, he was lying down.
Yes, the ice was there for the shoulder, but he felt that he wasn't stable, so we took him for a scan in that situation,” Jayawardene said. “We requested a concussion sub. It's at the match referee and the umpires' discretion.