As the countdown to IPL 2026 ticks closer, former English cricketers are weighing in on the probable winners of this season. Their predictions have led to much discussion amongst cricket fans, with leading teams like Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings being heavily discussed.
Former England skipper, Michael Vaughan has exclusively tipped Mumbai Indians for the title. The former England skipper was rather sure when he announced his verdict.
"Only 1 team wining this year and it's @mipaltan."
He reiterated his statement while appearing on the "Stick to Cricket" podcast as well:
"I'll throw the first name out there. Mumbai Indians will win it this year. They have not won it for a few. They've got an incredible team."
Mumbai Indians are one of the most successful IPL teams in the history of the league and this year, they will be led by Hardik Pandya. Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah are few of the experienced players in the side, and although the team did not make the playoffs last season, they are still considered a strong contender.
Also Read | Will Jasprit Bumrah Play MI’s First Match vs KKR in IPL 2026? Big Update After CoE Visit
Mixed opinions on RCB and CSK
However, not everyone agrees with the ex-England captain's verdict. Alastair Cook, another former England skipper, has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru for the IPL 2026 crown and said that the team has a very good setup and strong coaching under Andy Flower.
RCB will be looking to defend their title this season but might face some early stumbles due to the absence of Key players like Yash Dayal from the squad and expected absence of Josh Hazlewood due to fitness concerns in the initial phase of the tournament.
Phil Tufnell, however, initially echoed Cook's sentiment and supported RCB, but later retracted his choice to Chennai Super Kings citing Sanju Samson's inclusion as a major factor behind his choice.
CSK, one of the most consistent IPL teams have always managed to come up trumps under pressure.
Only Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have managed to defend the IPL title and the pressure on RCB to join that elite group will be immense.
It's all set for a nail-biting IPL 2026 with various experts giving conflicting views.
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