MI vs RR: Rajasthan Royals sign Ravi Singh replacement with IPL 2026 Playoff qualification on the line

Rajasthan Royals will play against Mumbai Indians in an important match of the IPL 2026 season at the Wankhede Stadium on May 24. A win will take Rajasthan straight into the top four, while a defeat could leave them waiting anxiously on other results. Ahead of this high-pressure final league game, Rajasthan have been forced into a late squad change after an injury setback in their camp.

Ravi Singh ruled out before MI vs RR

Rajasthan Royals have confirmed that wicketkeeper-batter Ravi Singh has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury.

Ravi featured in just one match this season, against Delhi Capitals on May 17. Although he was not a regular starter, his injury still affects Rajasthan’s squad depth at a crucial stage of the tournament. With the Royals entering a must-win fixture against Mumbai Indians, they have moved quickly to bring in a replacement before their final league-stage test.

Rajasthan Royals sign Emanjot Chahal

Rajasthan Royals have signed Emanjot Chahal as Ravi Singh’s replacement for the rest of IPL 2026. Emanjot is a young all-rounder from Patiala who bowls left-arm spin and has represented Punjab in domestic cricket. He has played three first-class matches, picking up 11 wickets, and has also shown batting promise with a top score of 83 in first-class cricket. He will join Rajasthan Royals for a fee of INR 30 lakh.

IPL 2026: Why this move matters for Rajasthan Royals

This is not a direct like-for-like replacement. Ravi Singh is a wicketkeeper-batsman, while Emanjot Chahal is a spin-bowling all-rounder. But at this point of the season, Rajasthan need squad flexibility more than perfect symmetry.

The timing is important because MI vs RR is effectively a qualification game for the Royals. Rajasthan still controls their destiny, but only if they beat Mumbai Indians. The Wankhede Stadium is usually a batting-friendly venue, but with this being an afternoon fixture, the surface could dry out and bring slower bowlers into the game.

That makes Emanjot a useful late addition, even if he does not immediately walk into the playing XI. His left-arm spin gives Rajasthan another domestic bowling option if they need to adjust their balance. For Rajasthan, the equation is simple: beat MI and qualify. Before that decisive clash, they have made sure Ravi Singh’s injury does not leave them short of cover.

Also READ: Why Rajasthan Royals are favorites ahead of Punjab Kings and KKR in IPL 2026 playoff race?