Rohit Sharma could be in line for a return to the Mumbai Indians (MI) captaincy ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027, with all-rounder Hardik Pandya looking all set to depart the franchise. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also feels that veteran batter Rohit has the leadership qualities and understanding of the franchise and will be a batter choice to captain the side. Following a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, Mumbai Indians are overhauling their leadership structure.
Recently Kieron Pollard was appointed Mumbai Indians’ head coach following the departure of Mahela Jayawardene. The side endured a difficult season in 2026, finishing ninth in the points table with four wins from 14 matches. The devastating result last season has put Pandya’s position as captain in uncertainty because it as of now remains to be seen as to what decision the franchise will take.
"I think Rohit and Pollard can be a good combination. This might happen, I don't know. I am sure Hardik will not be there. His chances of staying there are very low. Suryakumar is out of the Indian team. I don't see him captaining MI. It has become a big problem. This team needs to fix a lot of things now. Anyway, there is only one year left for the mega auction. Who has the experience to fix these things in this short time?" Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
"It is Rohit. So I think it is an obvious choice, at least for this year. He is a frontrunner for me. He has a good bond with Polly also," he added.
As for Rohit Sharma he is not new to leadership, having previously captained Mumbai Indians to five IPL title wins after assuming the captaincy in the middle of IPL 2013. That year MI won their maiden IPL title.