Injured Rohit Sharma doubtful: Who replaces him as MI opener vs Punjab Kings in IPL match?

As if their struggles so far in the field with the bat and ball were not enough, the five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians now face uncertainty around Rohit Sharma's availability for their all-important match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Thursday.

Since the two teams last met in the second Qualifier last year, their results have gone in different directions. Punjab Kings have moved to second place before Wednesday’s game and remain unbeaten in IPL 2026, while Mumbai Indians are second from bottom with issues in both batting and bowling.

Rohit Sharma retired hurt on 19 off 13 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the previous match due to what appeared to be a hamstring issue. He arrived late for training on Wednesday evening and only did light warm-ups, some jogging and a short net session. There is no confirmation yet on his availability for the match against Punjab Kings.

What options do MI have if Rohit doesn't play?

If Rohit does not play, Mumbai Indians will have to look at changes in their combination. One option is to bring in Quinton de Kock as an opener, but that would mean leaving out one overseas player among Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner or Trent Boult.

If Mumbai want to keep those three overseas players, they could consider a direct replacement with Vidarbha opener Danish Malewar. Another option is Robin Minz.

If the team looks to change the bowling attack by leaving out Boult for Ashwani Kumar, then de Kock can be included in the playing XI. However, with Jasprit Bumrah yet to take a wicket this season and the rest of the bowling unit not performing as expected, dropping Boult may be difficult.

Mumbai Indians have the highest economy rate in the competition at 11.3 and a bowling average of 55.00. Delhi Capitals are next with 35.60. Mumbai have not struggled as much in the powerplay and death overs, but they have been the most expensive team in the middle overs with an economy rate of 11.08, more than a run higher than Chennai Super Kings at 9.85.

Meanwhile, Will Jacks is still not available as he is on his way to India.