Mumbai Indians have been given a possible boost before their key IPL 2026 match with Lucknow Super Giants with the decision whether Rohit Sharma should return or not being completely at the discretion of the player. Rohit was sidelined since April 12 after being injured during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Wankhede Stadium where he retired hurt batting on 19.
Despite not being yet proclaimed as fully fit, Rohit has still been able to travel with the team and undergo training. On the eve of the match, he was reported to have again batted for nearly an hour, and to have undergone some fitness exercises with signs of improvement. The management of the team has suggested that the ultimate decision as to whether he will participate in the game will be based on how sure he is of his fitness prior to the game.
In the meantime, the speculation is still rising surrounding the availability of MS Dhoni in IPL 2026. Chennai Super Kings veteran has missed out on the tournament because of a calf injury sustained sometime prior to the tournament. Although there were initial hopes of a fast comeback, little has been made, and Dhoni has not travelled with the team, who are to play their next match against Delhi Capitals.
Head coach Stephen Fleming had previously alluded to other injury issues, further muddling the Dhoni comeback schedule. Although the officials of the team are hopeful that he might be available to play later in the season, his absence in the recent matches has cast doubt.
As Mumbai Indians look forward to a strong push in the tournament and Chennai Super Kings await clarity on Dhoni, fitness updates of key players will continue to be critical as the league progresses.