Why concussion sub for a shoulder injury? Mahela Jayawardene explains

IPL 2026: Why concussion sub for a shoulder injury? Mahela Jayawardene explains | Cricket News - The Times of Bharat

IPL 2026: Why concussion sub for a shoulder injury? Mahela Jayawardene explains

IPL 2026: Why concussion sub for a shoulder injury? Mahela Jayawardene explains

A one-sided clash at the Wankhede Stadium turned into a major talking point after

’ controversial use of a concussion substitute during their 103-run defeat to

While Sanju Samson’s unbeaten century and Akeal Hosein’s four-wicket haul powered CSK to a commanding victory, the spotlight shifted to the unusual introduction of Shardul Thakur as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner.

Ashwani Kumar opens up on Mumbai Indians' triumph, team mindset

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.

“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. They allowed Shardul Thakur. It is what it is. But hopefully, Santner's injury isn't too bad. Once he's back, we'll have a look at it,” he added.

The explanation, however, did little to silence debate, with many questioning whether a visible shoulder injury justified a concussion replacement.

IPL 2026 Rules vs reality: Decision raises eyebrows

As per IPL rules, teams must nominate potential concussion substitutes before the match, covering roles such as batter, bowler and all-rounder. The final call rests with the match referee, who ensures a like-for-like replacement.

Despite that framework, the optics of the situation — especially with Santner seen wearing a shoulder sling later — fueled widespread discussion.

Beyond the controversy, MI endured another disappointing outing.

“We have managed just four points from seven matches. Disappointed to have lost this game,” Jayawardene admitted.

“We lost our rhythm in the two powerplays itself, first with the ball and then with the bat… As a team we all have to improve.”

He also reflected on the decision to chase: “We discussed and felt comfortable chasing. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not.”

Jayawardene did find a silver lining in youngster Allah Ghazanfar, saying, “He is very brave and maturing with time… we will keep backing him.”

As CSK climbed the IPL 2026 table with a dominant conquest, MI were left grappling not just with defeat — but a decision that has sparked one of the season’s biggest debates.

At TOI Sports Desk, reporters work around the clock to bring you comprehensive updates from the globe of sports. Expect nuanced match reports, previews, and reviews, along with statistics-based technical analysis, the latest social media trends, and expert insights across cricket, football, tennis, badminton, hockey, motorsports, wrestling, boxing, shooting, athletics, and more.

IPL 2026: Why concussion sub for a shoulder injury? Mahela Jayawardene explains

‘He knew we needed him’: Gaikwad dedicates CSK win to Mukesh after mother’s passing

Will Dhoni play the next game for CSK? Hussey shares fresh updates

Daily-wager’s daughter Nausheen Naz has no gear, eyes hockey Asia Cup

Watch: Nadal back on court! Legend plays tennis against Sinner, Bellingham

From mother's last rites to CSK's thumping conquest: Mukesh Choudhary bowls through pain

PSL toss turns WWE! Mascots ‘fight’, Ramiz Raja’s commentary steals show – Watch

Heated on-field moment! Tilak Varma, Jamie Overton clash as SKY steps in – Watch

PSL drama! Foreign coach loses cool, starts swearing in presser - Watch

103-run hammering: CSK hand MI their biggest IPL defeat as Samson, spinners lead rout

Tamil Nadu Election 2026 Live Updates: TVK chief Vijay urges EC to extend polling by 2 hours; clash reported between AIADMK and DMK cadres in Salem

Political turmoil in Nepal: Parliament suspended, Home Minister resigns amid financial conduct probe

Mike Vrabel allegedly mocks his wife in an interview with Dianna Russini as his controversial remark sparks concern about his marriage

UP Board 10th Result 2026 Live Updates: UPMSP Class 10 scorecards releasing on April 23, official notice issued, here's how you can download scorecards from website, DigiLocker and other apps

Accused Shows No Remorse: Delhi Officials detail rape-murder and robbery; Alwar case probe widens

UP Board Result 2026 Live Updates: Results to be declared on April 23 at 4 pm, result link to be available soon; check steps to download scorecards

"He fathered her child": Dianna Russini’s alleged confession about her older son adds a latest twist to the Mike Vrabel saga

UP Board 12th Result 2026 Live Updates: UPMSP Inter results releasing tomorrow at 4 PM; check official websites, steps to download scores on TOI portal

“We miss each other”: Mike Vrabel’s remarks about his wife raise eyebrows amid ongoing alleged drama involving Dianna Russini

Dana White confirms UFC will break one of its strictest rules for Trump-linked White House fight night

SECRETS SOLD! How Elite U.S. Commando in Maduro Mission Won $400,000 Betting Large | Polymarket

‘Kabhi India Aake Dekho’: Iran Mocks Donald Trump With Maharashtra Video After ‘Hellhole’ Row

Iran Lashes Out After Trump’s 'Hellhole' Remark Against India, China | 'Cradles Of Civilisation'

West Bengal Poll Violence Explained: Why Elections Repeatedly Turn Into Clashes

"Behen Darr Gayi!": Fans relive ‘Bhagam Bhag’ era after watching Akshay Kumar's 'Bhooth Bangla' trailer

MBOSE HSLC result 2026 to release tomorrow: Check details here

Iran war risk: JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon warns of oil shocks, sticky inflation and higher interest rates

Make your clutch last longer with these easy driving tips

“Three-against-one situation”: El Rubius opens up on being “targeted” in MrBeast’s viral $1M challenge

Bihar BTSC lab assistant notification released for 1091 posts at btsc.bihar.gov.in; apply here

IPL craze costs techie Rs 1.46 lakh in fake RCB vs CSK ticket scam

Raising “robot-proof” kids: Why creativity and curiosity matter more than ever

Inside ‘Satguru Sharan’: Exploring Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Rs 100 crore Bandra home

How selling Alaska in 1867 was a costly mistake for Russia

'Hera Pheri 3 is coming': Paresh Rawal dismisses delay reports and reveals he will 'start shooting soon'

US-Iran War: A daring rescue Hollywood blockbuster is on its way. Till then, pick your favourite from these 10 films on bringing someone home against all odds

Kolkata team unveils fan mural at Rash Behari Avenue, celebrating city’s first love

How US spread a lie to rescue a pilot of a jet shot down in Iran

Netflix unveils ‘VOID’, an AI model that can change a movie plot

AI data centers are causing 'stress' not just to tech companies, but also private insurers

"Trans women are.....": Clavicular’s viral moment with trans women sparks fresh conversation on internet culture

Copyright © 2026 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service