Sports · Cricket · 3 hrs ago
Rohit Sharma may return as Mumbai Indians captain for IPL 2027
Mumbai Indians are planning a reset after six seasons without a trophy, including a new coaching staff and a possible change of captain for IPL 2027.
One report says Rohit Sharma has agreed to return as captain, while another says the decision is not settled and may depend on trade talks.
Rohit led Mumbai to five IPL titles, but he will turn 41 during the next season and is also aiming to play in the ODI World Cup that follows.
Tilak Varma is another captaincy option and could be considered as a longer-term choice; Jasprit Bumrah is also mentioned as a possibility.
Hardik Pandya’s future at the franchise is linked to trade discussions, and one report says he would stay if no trade is agreed.
Mumbai have appointed Kieron Pollard as head coach and named Robin Uthappa, Mitchell McClenaghan, Dhawal Kulkarni and T Dilip to coaching roles.
The captaincy decision is expected alongside auction-related plans, but the reports differ on whether Rohit’s return is already agreed.
Mumbai Indians are considering Rohit Sharma for a return as captain for IPL 2027, but the franchise has not officially confirmed its choice.
The Times of India and Indian Express report that Rohit is likely to take the role, while Hindustan Times says his age and international schedule make the decision uncertain.
Tilak Varma is also a leading captaincy option and could be groomed for the role, while Jasprit Bumrah is another possible candidate.
Mumbai Indians are in talks about trading Hardik Pandya, who replaced Rohit as captain in 2024; reports differ on how many teams are involved.
The franchise has overhauled its coaching staff under new head coach Kieron Pollard as it prepares to rebuild after finishing ninth in 2026.
- Who
- Rohit Sharma and Mumbai Indians; Tilak Varma and Jasprit Bumrah are also mentioned as possible captaincy candidates.
- What
- Mumbai Indians may appoint Rohit as captain for IPL 2027. The franchise has not officially confirmed its decision.
- When
- IPL 2027; reports were published on October 30 and 31, 2026.
- Where
- Mumbai Indians, based in Mumbai, India.
- Why
- The franchise is resetting after a disappointing 2026 season and is considering leadership options as it prepares for IPL 2027.
Mumbai Indians’ case for Rohit
Concerns about Rohit’s return
Captaincy choice
Mumbai Indians’ case for Rohit
The Indian Express reports that Rohit agreed to take over after the franchise requested it; the Times of India says there is a strong possibility.
Concerns about Rohit’s return
Hindustan Times says the choice is not straightforward and that Rohit’s age and commitments ahead of the ODI World Cup are considerations.
Long-term leadership
Mumbai Indians’ case for Rohit
Rohit could lead for a year while Tilak Varma is groomed for the role.
Concerns about Rohit’s return
Tilak Varma could instead be chosen as a long-term captain, with Jasprit Bumrah also a possible candidate.
Hardik Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as Mumbai Indians captain.
Mumbai Indians finished ninth and extended their title drought to six years.
Hindustan Times and Indian Express reported on possible captaincy candidates and trade discussions involving Hardik Pandya.
Times of India reported a strong possibility of Rohit returning as captain and named December 16 in Goa as the date and location for the IPL 2027 mini-auction.
- Rohit Sharma
- Captained Mumbai Indians to IPL titles in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020
- Mumbai Indians’ 2026 finish
- Ninth
- Hardik Pandya
- Replaced Rohit as captain in 2024
- IPL 2027 mini-auction
- December 16, Goa
- Potential deputy
- Tilak Varma
- Coaching staff
- Kieron Pollard named head coach; Robin Uthappa, Mitchell McClenaghan, T Dilip and Dhawal Kulkarni also named in coaching roles
3 sources
What people are saying
In an eventuality, where the trade doesn't come to pass, the player will stay with MI. There is little chance of him being released in the auction
This is speculation. Until we don’t finish trade window and retention we will not decide this.
Rohit initially had suggested Tilak Varma’s name but the franchise has requested him to take over captaincy which he has now agreed.