Watch: Legendary Indian captain begins intense training in Mumbai ahead of IPL 2026

Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma is set to return to competitive cricket next month with the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026. The 38-year-old last featured in the India vs New Zealand ODI series in January. He has cut short his break and resumed training in Mumbai, with videos of his running sessions going viral on social media.

Rohit was recently seen attending the wedding ceremony of Shikhar Dhawan along with his wife, Ritika Sajdeh. He is now gearing up for a strong comeback in the upcoming IPL 2026 season.

In the circulating videos, Rohit is training at the MCA Ground in BKC, Mumbai. Members of the Mumbai Indians support staff are accompanying him as he works towards regaining full match fitness and preparing for his return to the field.

Watch the video here:

Rohit Sharma Eyes Complete Role in IPL 2026

Rohit Sharma has improved his fitness after stepping away from Test cricket. The former India captain now focuses only on ODIs. With guidance from Abhishek Nayar, he has reduced his weight and worked on his endurance to extend his playing career.

The 2026 IPL season could be his last before the 2027 World Cup in South Africa. Media reports suggest the 38-year-old wants to play entire matches instead of being used only as a substitute under the Impact Player rule.

In recent seasons, the Mumbai Indians have often replaced him after his batting innings to add an extra bowler. Now, being in better shape, he reportedly prefers to stay involved from start to finish. This update has drawn strong reactions from supporters.

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No Interest in Substitute Duty

The Impact Player rule allows teams to bring in a replacement during a game for tactical reasons. Many sides use this option to adjust their balance between batting and bowling.

However, reports indicate that the  'Hitman' has clearly communicated his wish to be included in the starting XI and remain active throughout the contest. He is said to prefer a central role rather than limited participation.

This stance may influence team plans ahead of IPL 2026. Rohit remains one of the senior-most members of the squad, and his presence adds experience and calmness to the lineup.

There has been no official statement from either Rohit or the Mumbai Indians so far. For now, fans await clarity on how he will be utilised in what could be his final IPL campaign.

Rohit Sharma’s T20I and IPL Career

Rohit Sharma has built an outstanding record in T20 cricket at both the international level and in the IPL.

In T20 Internationals, he has played 159 matches and batted in 151 innings, scoring 4,231 runs at an average of 32.05 and a strike rate of 140.89. His highest score is 121*. He has scored five centuries and 32 half-centuries, hitting 383 fours and 205 sixes. He has also taken 65 catches in the format.

In the IPL, Rohit has represented two franchises and played 272 matches. In 267 innings, he has scored 7,046 runs at an average of 29.73 with a strike rate of 132.09. His highest IPL score is 109*. He has registered two centuries and 47 fifties, smashing 640 fours and 302 sixes. Additionally, he has taken 102 catches in the tournament.