Rohit Sharma (Pic credit: Mumbai Indians) NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians have received an early boost ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday, but the big question still remains – will Rohit Sharma start?MI’s campaign has hit a rough patch after four consecutive defeats and Rohit’s fitness has become central to their revival hopes. The former captain suffered a hamstring injury during the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and subsequently missed the clash against Punjab Kings.
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Mahela Jayawardene on bad bowling, combinations and team issues The MI coach offers a positive updateGiving the latest update, MI bowling coach Paras Mhambrey struck an upbeat tone but stopped short of confirming Rohit’s availability for the match.“Both (Rohit Sharma and Mitchell Santner) are fit. In fact, if you just walk around the nets here, if you just look at Rohit’s batting. So yes, he is working on it. Santner is fit. So unfortunately we missed him (Santner) in the last game, we found a mistake. In the pre-match conference on Sunday, it was nothing we could do, yeah, M.The update suggests that Rohit has recovered well enough to resume batting and is actively preparing, while Mitchell Santner has also shaken off the illness that ruled him out earlier. However, the franchise is yet to make a final call on Rohit’s participation, with a decision likely to be taken closer to match time.
Rohit Sharma back in the nets, MI stay cautious
Rohit’s return to the nets in Ahmedabad has certainly lifted spirits in the MI camp. The experienced opener looked comfortable during the session, indicating progress in his recovery. Still, with hamstring injuries often being tricky, management isn’t willing to rush him back prematurely.A team statement confirmed that Rohit “continues to be assessed by the medical team and head coach Mahela Jayawardene”, underscoring the cautious approach.His presence could be crucial for a side struggling for consistency. MI are currently 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 and brought in Quinton de Kock, whose century offered a glimpse of what the top order can bring. Yet Rohit’s leadership and ability in big moments remains irreplaceable.So far, the signs are encouraging, but not definitive. Rohit Sharma is back to bat, the coach has declared him fit, but whether he walks out against Gujarat Titans will depend on the final fitness check.See also IPL orange cap holder and purple cap holder.
