Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians have received a timely boost ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans on Monday at Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad, but the big question still remains — will Rohit Sharma take the field?MI’s campaign has hit a rough patch after four consecutive defeats, and Rohit’s fitness has become central to their hopes of revival. The former captain had suffered a hamstring injury during the game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and subsequently missed the clash against Punjab Kings.MI coach offers positive updateProviding the latest update, MI bowling coach Paras Mhambrey struck an optimistic tone but stopped short of confirming Rohit’s availability for the match.“Both [Rohit Sharma and Mitchell Santner] are fit. In fact, if you are just walking by the nets out here, if you just look at Rohit’s batting. So yeah, he is working on it. Santner is fit. So, unfortunately, we missed him (Santner) in the last game, picked up a bug. Not something that we could do. But both are fit, yeah,” Mhambrey said during the pre-match press conference on Sunday.The update suggests that Rohit has recovered well enough to resume batting and is actively preparing, while Mitchell Santner has also shaken off illness that ruled him out previously. However, the franchise is yet to make a final call on Rohit’s participation, with the decision likely to be taken closer to match time.
Rohit Sharma back in nets, MI remain cautious
Rohit’s return to the nets in Ahmedabad has certainly lifted spirits in the MI camp. The veteran opener looked comfortable during his session, indicating progress in recovery. Yet, with hamstring injuries often tricky, the management is unwilling to rush him back prematurely.A team statement confirmed that Rohit “continues to be evaluated by the medical team and head coach Mahela Jayawardene,” underlining the cautious approach.His presence could be crucial for a side struggling for consistency. MI are currently at the bottom of the table, and Rohit’s experience at the top of the order could provide much-needed stability.In his absence, the team reshuffled their combination, bringing in Quinton de Kock, whose century offered a glimpse of what the top order can deliver. Still, Rohit’s leadership and ability in big moments remain irreplaceable.For now, the signs are encouraging but not definitive. Rohit Sharma is back batting, the coach has declared him fit, but whether he walks out against Gujarat Titans will depend on a final fitness clearance.
