Rohit Sharma has been a cornerstone of Mumbai Indians since 2011, when the franchise signed him for $2 million. He was appointed captain midway through the 2013 season, replacing Ricky Ponting, and led the team to their first IPL title that year. Under his leadership, Mumbai Indians won the championship five times in total. However, ahead of the 2024 edition, Rohit was removed as captain and replaced by Hardik Pandya, a decision that sparked widespread criticism among fans. Since then, he has primarily been used as an Impact Player, often walking in to bat rather than fielding. Recent speculation about his future with the franchise emerged, with Kolkata Knight Riders reportedly interested, but Mumbai Indians confirmed through a social media post that Rohit would remain with them.
Should Mumbai Indians Retain Rohit Sharma for IPL 2026?
Despite being 38 years old, Rohit Sharma remains a valuable asset for Mumbai Indians. In the last two seasons, he scored over 400 runs at a strike rate approaching 150. In 2025, he registered four half-centuries, showcasing his continued ability to influence matches. His experience as a batter and positive impact on younger players make him an important figure in the dressing room. While his prime years may be behind him, Rohit still possesses match-winning capabilities that can benefit Mumbai Indians significantly. Given his consistent performance and leadership qualities, retaining him would be a wise decision for the franchise moving forward into the next season.
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