"Hey, Skipper": Rohit Sharma Gets MI Captaincy Approval From Mitchell Santner

Kaushik Kashyap

Mitchell Santner and Rohit Sharma. [Source - AFP]

Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to return as Mumbai Indians captain for IPL 2027. Mitchell Santner, meanwhile, might have already welcomed his skipper.

The Black Caps shared a video of a brief but interesting exchange between the two during the handshakes after the third ODI between India and New Zealand was washed out in Hamilton.

Mitchell Santner Calls Rohit Sharma ‘Skipper’ During Post-Match Handshakes

The third ODI between India and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain at Seddon Park in Hamilton. However, the post-match handshakes produced an interesting moment involving Rohit Sharma and Mitchell Santner.

The Blackcaps shared a video of the two Mumbai Indians teammates exchanging a few words during the handshakes.

Rohan💫

@rohann__45

Rohit Sharma: “Mitchi” Mitchell Santner: “Hello, skipper” Rohit: “Thanks, man” It’s now almost confirmed that Rohit Sharma will be leading Mumbai Indians. Feel for that one fanbase that will now claim Santner is also Rohit’s PR just because he called him “skipper.” 😭

Nov 10, 2026, 2:06 PM

Rohit Sharma first greeted Santner by calling him ‘Mitchi’, before the New Zealand captain responded with ‘Hey, skipper’, leaving the Indian batter smiling.

Virat Kohli Beats MS Dhoni To Achieve Major ODI Milestone In New Zealand

Rohit Sharma's Return as Mumbai Indians Captain for IPL 2027 All But Confirmed

Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to reclaim Mumbai Indians' captaincy for IPL 2027, with Hardik Pandya potentially moving to Punjab Kings. The franchises are understood to be working towards a possible player trade ahead of the auction.

Rohit had previously led Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles before Hardik took over the captaincy ahead of the 2024 season. However, reports of Hardik's potential departure have opened the door for Rohit's return to the leadership role at the franchise.

Mitchell Santner's ‘Hey, skipper’ remark has added an interesting twist to the ongoing developments. The exchange has further fuelled speculation around Rohit Sharma's return as Mumbai Indians captain ahead of IPL 2027.

While it does not officially confirm anything, Rohit's captaincy return appears all but certain. Fans are now waiting for an official announcement, unless there is a last-minute change in the franchise's plans.