Mumbai, October 30: Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to return as Mumbai Indians captain for the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, with the five-time champions preparing to hand the leadership back to their most successful skipper after three seasons under Hardik Pandya.
According to a report by The Indian Express, the MI team management has approached Rohit about taking charge again, and the former India captain has agreed following discussions with the franchise. The development could bring an end to Hardik’s captaincy stint, which began ahead of the 2024 season. Rohit has led the Mumbai-based franchise to five IPL titles, joint-most in the history of the league.
The report also suggests that Hardik is open to continuing with Mumbai Indians even if he has to play under Rohit, should a proposed trade move fail to materialise.
Rohit Sharma Agrees to Return as Mumbai Indians Captain
Rohit led Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, establishing himself as one of the most successful captains in the tournament’s history.
However, the franchise replaced him with Hardik ahead of IPL 2024 after bringing the all-rounder back from Gujarat Titans. The decision attracted considerable attention and was followed by a difficult season, with Mumbai finishing ninth after winning just four of their 14 league matches.
The Indian Express report further states that Mumbai had considered a leadership change even before the conclusion of the previous season. Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Tilak Varma were among the players whose names came up as possible captaincy options.
Rohit had reportedly suggested Tilak as a potential successor when the franchise discussed its leadership plans. However, Mumbai eventually approached the veteran opener to take over the captaincy again, and he agreed after a series of discussions.
Rohit also reportedly had a say in the franchise’s coaching appointments, indicating his involvement in the team’s planning beyond his role as a player.
Hardik Pandya Willing to Play Under Rohit Sharma
Rohit’s potential return raises questions about Hardik’s future at Mumbai Indians, particularly after reports of a possible trade involving the all-rounder ahead of IPL 2027.
However, the report states that the Baroda all-rounder has no reservations about playing under the Mumbaikar if a proposed trade deal does not go through.
Hardik returned to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2024 and was immediately appointed captain, replacing Rohit. His leadership tenure began with a challenging campaign, as the franchise finished near the bottom of the table.
Mumbai improved in the following season, reaching the playoffs, but the franchise has continued to seek a return to the title-winning form it enjoyed under Rohit.
A potential reunion between the two would mark a significant change in their roles at the franchise, with Hardik potentially returning to the position of a senior player rather than captain.