'Hitman' era in Mumbai again? MI management to select new captain; Hardik likely to leave team

MUMBAI: Rohit Sharma might return as the captain of the Mumbai Indians franchise for the IPL 2027 season. Reports suggest the franchise is looking to bring back Rohit—the most successful captain in the team's history. It was ahead of the 2024 season that the Mumbai management transferred the captaincy from Rohit to Hardik; however, the results have not been pleasing.

Rohit captained Mumbai to five IPL titles. The franchise last won the trophy in the 2020 season; prior to that, Mumbai had secured victories in 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019. Hardik was brought to Mumbai and appointed captain after having led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title, but the move did not yield fruit for Mumbai.

Meanwhile, speculation is afloat that Hardik might move from Mumbai to another franchise following the decision to hand the captaincy back to Rohit. Hardik has been linked with teams like Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals, though there is no official confirmation. Names such as Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma have also been mentioned as potential captaincy candidates; however, it is understood that the Mumbai management prefers Rohit.

Rohit Sharma will be 40 by next season. The role would not likely be a permanent one. Suryakumar Yadav is a leading contender to take over the captaincy, given his role in leading India to an ICC title. Clarity on these matters is expected in the coming days.