IPL 2026| 'We don't want to push': Mumbai Indians head coach gives big update on Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma was rested for Mumbai Indians' IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings due to a hamstring injury. Despite his absence, head coach Mahela Jayawardene stated it's not a serious issue and the team's struggles are a collective responsibility. Mumbai Indians suffered their fourth consecutive defeat, falling to ninth place in the standings.
NEW DELHI: Rohit Sharma missed Mumbai Indians’ crucial IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. The former Mumbai Indians captain, who has led the franchise to five IPL titles, was rested after suffering a hamstring injury in the previous match. There was considerable speculation around Rohit’s availability, with Mumbai Indians assessing his fitness until the last moment.
However, the team decided not to take any risks and opted to rest him. Quinton de Kock replaced Rohit at the top of the order, opening alongside Ryan Rickelton. Mumbai Indians slumped to their fourth consecutive defeat, losing the match by seven wickets to Punjab Kings.
Providing an update on Rohit, Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene addressed the situation after the match. "He (Rohit) started running yesterday, [we'll take] day to day to see how he feels. He knows his body better than anybody else so it's nothing serious but at the same time we don't want to push and it's early season still," Jayawardene said in the post-match press conference.
Jayawardene also emphasised that the team’s struggles cannot be blamed on one individual and are a collective responsibility. Mumbai Indians began their IPL 2026 campaign with a six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders, but have since suffered defeats against Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and now Punjab Kings. "I think it's on every one of us when we are not doing well.