Mumbai, October 30: Rohit Sharma is set to resume his role as captain of the Mumbai Indians for the 2027 Indian Premier League, as the five‑time champions move to reinstate their most successful leader after a three‑season stint with Hardik Pandya.
A report by The Indian Express says the Mumbai Indians management has approached Rohit Sharma about resuming the captaincy, and the former India captain has agreed following talks. The move would end Hardik Pandya’s tenure, which started before the 2024 season. Rohit has guided the Mumbai‑based franchise to five IPL titles, the joint‑most in the competition’s history.
The report adds that Hardik Pandya has no objections to continuing with Mumbai Indians, even if he has to play under Rohit Sharma should a proposed trade not materialise.
Rohit Sharma Agrees to Return as Mumbai Indians Captain
Rohit Sharma captured five IPL titles for Mumbai Indians in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, cementing his reputation as one of the tournament’s most accomplished captains.
Nevertheless, the franchise replaced him with Hardik Pandya ahead of the 2024 IPL after signing the all‑rounder from Gujarat Titans. The decision drew considerable scrutiny and was followed by a tough season, with Mumbai finishing ninth after winning only four of their 14 matches.
The Indian Express report further notes that Mumbai had begun considering a leadership change even before the previous season concluded. Players such as Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Tilak Varma were among those whose names were circulated as possible captaincy options.
Rohit Sharma had reportedly recommended Tilak Varma as a potential successor when the franchise discussed its leadership plans. Nonetheless, Mumbai eventually approached the veteran opener to resume the captaincy, and he agreed after a series of discussions.
Rohit Sharma also reportedly influenced the franchise’s coaching appointments, highlighting his involvement in the team’s overall planning beyond his on‑field role.
Hardik Pandya Willing to Play Under Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma’s potential return reignites speculation about Hardik Pandya’s future at Mumbai Indians, especially amid reports of a possible trade for the all‑rounder ahead of IPL 2027.
However, the report states that the Baroda all‑rounder has no reservations about playing under Rohit Sharma should a proposed trade deal fall through.
Hardik Pandya returned to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans ahead of the 2024 IPL and was instantly appointed captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. His captaincy began with a challenging campaign, with the franchise finishing near the bottom of the table.
The team rebounded the following season, reaching the playoffs, but the franchise continues to chase the title‑winning form it enjoyed under Rohit Sharma.
A potential reunion between the two would mark a significant shift in their roles at the franchise, with Hardik Pandya likely reverting to a senior player position rather than captain.
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