Mumbai Indians may need to rethink how they use Rohit Sharma in IPL 2026. Former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh and Aakash Chopra believe the franchise should stop using the veteran opener as an Impact Player and instead keep him on the field for the entire match. Their comments come after Rohit’s remarkable fitness transformation and strong performances following his retirement from Test cricket.
For the past two IPL seasons, Mumbai Indians often used their former captain as an impact substitute — primarily bringing him in to bat. But with Rohit now looking leaner, sharper, and back among the runs, many believe the team could benefit more from his presence throughout the game.
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Rohit’s Fitness Turnaround Changes The Conversation
Questions about Rohit Sharma’s fitness began surfacing soon after he stepped away from Test cricket. At 38, there were also doubts about whether he could maintain peak performance heading into the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle.
However, Rohit quickly responded in the best way possible — with performances on the field.
The Mumbai Indians star shed noticeable weight and followed it up with strong ODI performances against Australia and South Africa, putting to rest many concerns about his form and physical condition.
Harbhajan: Rohit’s Leadership Matters On The Field
Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Rohit offers far more value than just batting.
Speaking on JioHotstar, Harbhajan said Mumbai Indians should ensure Rohit stays involved for the entire match rather than limiting his role.
According to Harbhajan, Rohit’s experience and leadership could help captain Hardik Pandya in pressure situations.
He pointed out that Rohit has been treated almost like a “12th man who only bats,” but someone with his leadership pedigree should be actively involved on the field.
In crunch moments, Harbhajan added, Rohit’s tactical insight and calm presence can make a big difference for the team.
Aakash Chopra: An Opener Shouldn’t Sit Out Half The Game
Former India opener and commentator Aakash Chopra echoed similar views.
Chopra argued that using Rohit as an impact substitute does not make much cricketing sense, especially when he is opening the innings.
According to him, openers usually prefer staying engaged with the match rather than sitting in the dugout for 20 overs before coming out to bat.
He also highlighted Rohit’s current fitness levels, describing him as possibly the “fittest and strongest” he has looked in years.
Chopra believes Mumbai Indians can only get the best out of Rohit if he remains part of the game for the full 40 overs.
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What It Means For Mumbai Indians In IPL 2026
Mumbai Indians are entering IPL 2026 with renewed expectations after a mixed run in recent seasons. With Hardik Pandya leading the side and Rohit Sharma continuing as one of the team’s senior figures, team balance will be crucial.
If Rohit does play the full match regularly, it could bring added tactical depth — not just with the bat but also in field placements, match awareness, and dressing-room leadership.
For a franchise that has won five IPL titles under Rohit’s captaincy, his influence still carries significant weight.
And as former players suggest, IPL 2026 might be the season where Mumbai Indians once again rely on Rohit Sharma not just as a batter — but as a full-time match presence.
