Mumbai Indians (MI) are keeping fans guessing over the fitness of Rohit Sharma ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. The franchise has confirmed that a final call on the veteran opener’s participation will be taken at the toss.
An MI spokesperson indicated that Rohit is showing steady improvement but stopped short of guaranteeing his return, saying his availability will depend on last-minute assessment. The uncertainty adds to the stakes for the high-pressure encounter as the five-time champions look to strengthen their position in the tournament.
During MI’s practice session at Wankhede on Tuesday, Rohit was present but did not take part in batting drills. Instead, he focused on light warm-ups and running exercises under the supervision of the team’s support staff. He was also seen in discussions with team personnel before leaving the field, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery.
While his presence at training is a positive sign, MI appear unwilling to rush their senior batter back into action without full fitness, especially given the demanding IPL schedule.
The session also saw friendly exchanges between players from both sides. Suryakumar was spotted chatting with Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, while MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene interacted with SRH opener Travis Head.
As MI gear up for a key home fixture, the team will be hoping for clarity — and possibly a timely return — from Rohit Sharma. His availability could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of this high-stakes IPL 2026 contest.
An MI spokesperson indicated that Rohit is showing steady improvement but stopped short of guaranteeing his return, saying his availability will depend on last-minute assessment. The uncertainty adds to the stakes for the high-pressure encounter as the five-time champions look to strengthen their position in the tournament.
Rohit Sharma’s recovery remains under close watch
The 38-year-old has been out of action since April 12 after sustaining a hamstring injury during a home fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Since then, Rohit has been undergoing rehabilitation and gradually increasing his workload in training.During MI’s practice session at Wankhede on Tuesday, Rohit was present but did not take part in batting drills. Instead, he focused on light warm-ups and running exercises under the supervision of the team’s support staff. He was also seen in discussions with team personnel before leaving the field, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery.
While his presence at training is a positive sign, MI appear unwilling to rush their senior batter back into action without full fitness, especially given the demanding IPL schedule.
Suryakumar Yadav steps up in Rohit’s absence
With Rohit’s participation uncertain, attention has shifted to Suryakumar Yadav, who led the intensity in MI’s nets session. The explosive batter trained for nearly 90 minutes and looked focused on regaining top form ahead of the must-win clash.The session also saw friendly exchanges between players from both sides. Suryakumar was spotted chatting with Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, while MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene interacted with SRH opener Travis Head.
As MI gear up for a key home fixture, the team will be hoping for clarity — and possibly a timely return — from Rohit Sharma. His availability could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of this high-stakes IPL 2026 contest.
