Rohit Sharma Back In Leadership Group As MI Set For Big IPL 2027 Shake Up

Rohit Sharma's captaincy return at MI discussed [Source: AFP]

Ahead of the IPL 2027 season, five-time champions Mumbai Indians are reportedly mulling a leadership and management shakeup. Apparently, Rohit Sharma’s return as captain was discussed, while head coach Mahela Jayawardene’s future is also sealed.

MI had a disappointing campaign in IPL 2026, finishing in second-to-last place on the points table after a series of disappointing losses. Hence, for the 2027 edition, the franchise is apparently looking to revamp the leadership structure.

Rohit Sharma says no to MI captaincy, but remains in leadership discussions

Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians are reportedly mulling sacking Hardik Pandya as captain as the players are unhappy with his leadership style and attitude. Trade talks have been going on, but nothing has materialised.

Interestingly, according to TOI, MI apparently explored the possibility of bringing Rohit Sharma back as captain after deciding that a leadership change could help restore stability. 

Rohit has powered Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles; so, with the franchise seeking a leadership boost, it was natural for the MI management to take his name into consideration in the aftermath of a torrid run in Pandya's captaincy. 

But at 39, Rohit is reportedly not interested in being a skipper and leading from the front again. That makes Tilak Varma and Jasprit Bumrah the more realistic captaincy options to replace Hardik Pandya. 

Rohit is one of the most successful captains of the tournament’s history. However, Mumbai sacked him after Hardik Pandya’s return in 2024, and it led to their steep decline.

But now that MI want Rohit Sharma back, the latter has completely detached himself from the leadership responsibilities. However, he still remains involved in discussions around the team's future direction and vision. 

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Mumbai Indians to retain Mahela Jayawardene as head coach

Having said that, when it comes to the coaching staff, Mumbai Indians are reluctant to transition for now. According to TOI, Mahela Jayawardene is expected to be retained as head coach for the IPL 2027 season.

He was apparently offered a two-year contract with a one-year extension clause. But in these three years, MI made it to the playoffs only once. In 2024 and 2026, they finished in 10th and 9th spots, respectively.

However, despite the decline, the franchise reportedly does not want to make sweeping changes. Jayawardene’s contract structure means MI can potentially keep him for another year, and a formal announcement is expected in October, assuming there is no late change of heart.

What does Rohit-Jayawardene's partnership mean for Mumbai Indians?

Interestingly, the dynamic duo of Rohit Sharma and Mahela Jayawardene brought a lot of success for Mumbai Indians. When Rohit won multiple titles for MI, Jayawardene guided him as head coach.

Now, after a difficult 2026 campaign, MI seem to be leaning towards keeping Jayawardene while using Rohit's experience to help shape the transition phase. 

It’s similar to how CSK are keeping MS Dhoni around to groom next-generation captaincy candidates like Ruturaj Gaikwad. But MI’s issues go way beyond.

They must focus on keeping the dressing room together and ensure each player is on the same page before the IPL 2027 season.

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