As if the problems for the Mumbai Indians (MI) weren’t less, Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of their next IPL 2026 clash. The five-time champions travel to New Chandigarh to face an unbeaten Punjab Kings (PBKS) side. However, Rohit will have to sit out due to his hamstring struggles in last few days, with the MI management taking a cautious approach.
Yesterday, reports claimed that the decision will be solely dependent on Rohit himself. Having said that, Rohit did come out to train on the eve of PBKS vs MI clash. However, he didn’t look comfortable, occasionally clutching his thigh. He did face some slow throwdowns in the nets but nothing suggested he is match ready.
Why no Rohit Sharma in PBKS vs MI clash?
In the game against RCB, Rohit hurt his hamstring. He decided to retire himself out two deliveries later after the physio took care of him before the start of the fifth over. It was clear that he was having trouble with his hamstring. After that, he had scans done. In that game, Rohit was slow to get off the blocks and made 19 off 13. MI needed 241 runs to win but Rohit had to retire himself out, an unfortunate decision that perhaps cost hosts the game.
Now, as per a Telegraph report, the medical team won’t rush and Rohit Sharma will not play on Thursday night in Mullanpur. Thankfully, his scans didn’t say he has any muscle tear or internal damage.
Rohit was one of the few MI players in form. He didn’t blast runs in all the games but was looking in good shape and rhythm. Losing him is a huge setback for MI, who have lost their last three games after ending their first-match hoodoo against KKR.
What’s wrong at Mumbai Indians?
Mumbai Indians’ issues this season aren’t just dependent on the results. Start with Jasprit Bumrah. He has gone 122 deliveries without a wicket in the IPL, the longest dry spell of his T20 career. While his economy hasn’t spiralled, the lack of breakthroughs has hurt MI at key phases, especially in the middle overs as MI overrely on him.
The problems don’t end there. Their middle order has underperformed significantly. Suryakumar Yadav has managed 106 runs so far, Sherfane Rutherford 101, Hardik Pandya 67, Naman Dhir 59, and Tilak Varma just 35. For a team built around batting depth, those are underwhelming returns. Tilak, in particular, has struggled to find any rhythm despite his recent international success.
There’s also a clear imbalance in the bowling attack. One of their overseas quicks is leaking runs at 12.22 per over, a massive spike from his career economy of 8.46. The spinners haven’t helped either, conceding freely without applying any pressure.
