MI to decide on captaincy later [Source: AFP]Rohit Sharma's potential return to the Mumbai Indians captaincy has been making rounds recently, as some reports link Hardik Pandya to a trade deal away from the franchise. This reported overhaul is a result of the string of underwhelming recent IPL seasons for the five-time champions.While some Mumbai Indians sources also denied discussions about Rohit Sharma returning to the captaincy, another update says the franchise has prioritised other issues ahead of IPL 2027.MI to settle key matters before deciding on captaincyFollowing recent developments around Rohit Sharma's return to MI captaincy, according to Cricbuzz, the five-time IPL champions are far from deciding on their captain for the forthcoming season. Before naming a new captain or even retaining Hardik Pandya for the role, they have several decisions to make.In the latest report, it was revealed that the MI management has not given any thought to Rohit Sharma's return to the helm. Before making any such decision, they are looking to lock down the coaching staff.ALSO READBCCI President Mithun Manhas Lays Roadmap For Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma Before 2027 World CupThe coming days will be crucial in the situation, where they will decide whether they need new staff or the existing staff will do the job to end the ongoing three-year auction cycle. They will movee to the captaincy question after nailing down the support staff.Why would MI name a new captain for IPL 2027?Through the years, the Men in Blue have been one of the most consistent and successfull IPL franchises. Rohit Sharma has been instrumental to their success, leading the team from the front from 2013 to 2023, while they lifted five IPL trophies.Hardik Pandya replaced him abruptly in 2024, fairly abruptly, which also left a sour taste even among the most loyal MI fans. The experiment has not worked for them at all, with Hardik only winning 15 of the 39 matches as MI skipper. He has lost 24 matches in three seasons, finishing 10th, 4th and 9th in three seasons.So, to fix things, especially after only acumulating 8 points last season, MI is looking for solutions and changing the captain could be the one. Apart from Rohit, even Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma and Jasprit Bumrah can be the potential candidates for the position.Additionally, Hardik Pandya could also leave the franchise in a trade ahead of the auction.ALSO READHasan Mahmud Jumps In ICC Test Rankings After Hat-Trick vs Afghanistan
