IPL 2026: Who Will Win Today’s Match Between Mumbai Indians (MI) vs Punjab Kings (PBKS), 24th Match?

The Mumbai Indians (MI) are prepared to host the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a vital Match 24 of IPL 2026 on April 16. Mumbai enters this contest looking to re-establish their dominance at home after a mixed start to the season.

The five-time champions have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their power-hitting department, and are eager to secure a win that would propel them further up the standings. On the other hand, the Punjab Kings arrive in Mumbai looking to break their pattern of close-fought losses.

Known for their unpredictable and aggressive brand of cricket, PBKS remains a dangerous side that can take the game away from any opposition on their day. With both teams desperate for points to keep their playoff hopes healthy, this encounter at the Wankhede Stadium is set to be a high-voltage battle.

Match Details & Live Streaming

• Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• Date & Time: Thursday, April 16, 7:30 PM (IST)
• Live Broadcasting & Streaming: JioStar Network Channels, JioHotstar

MI vs PBKS: Head-to-Head Record

• Matches Played: 32
• Won by MI: 17
• Won by PBKS: 15

Pitch Report

The pitch at the Wankhede Stadium is a dream for batsmen, offering a consistent bounce and a fast outfield. Historically, this venue has witnessed some of the highest-scoring games in IPL history. While the new ball might offer some swing for the pacers during the first few overs, the small boundaries make it difficult to contain batsmen once they are set.

The average first-innings score at this ground is between 185–200. As is typical for Mumbai evening games, the dew factor will play a significant role in the latter half of the match. Consequently, the team winning the toss will almost certainly choose to bowl first, as chasing under the lights is generally the preferred advantage here.

Team Analysis

Mumbai Indians:

MI’s strength lies in their explosive batting core. With the likes of Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav in the lineup, they possess the ability to accelerate at any stage. Their middle order has been bolstered by young domestic talent, providing a solid platform for late-innings flourishes.

In the bowling department, the pace attack looks settled, though they will rely heavily on their lead spinners to keep the scoring rate in check during the middle overs.

Punjab Kings:

PBKS features a dynamic squad with a focus on raw power. Their top order is capable of providing rapid starts, while their middle order consists of versatile players who can adapt to different match situations. Their primary weapon is their pace battery, which thrives on the bounce offered by the Wankhede track.

However, their consistency in the death overs remains an area they will look to tighten against a strong Mumbai finishing unit.

Match Prediction

Mumbai Indians usually find an extra gear when playing in front of their home crowd. The short boundaries and batting-friendly conditions play directly into their strengths. While Punjab Kings have the firepower to match MI run-for-run, Mumbai’s experience in high-pressure home situations gives them a slight edge.

If MI’s top order survives the initial burst from Punjab’s pacers, they are likely to dictate the terms of the game.

Prediction: Mumbai Indians likely to win

MI vs PBKS: Predicted Playing XI

Mumbai Indians (MI):

Ishan Kishan (WK), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (C), Tilak Varma, Nehal Wadhera, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Gerald Coetzee, Jasprit Bumrah, Piyush Chawla.

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

Shikhar Dhawan (C), Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh.