Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer and now a well-known commentator, firmly believes that Rohit Sharma should be utilized for the entire duration of matches in the upcoming IPL 2026 season, rather than being designated as an Impact Player. Chopra emphasized that Sharma appears to be ‘fitter than ever’ as he gears up for another season in the IPL. In the 2025 season, Rohit amassed 418 runs over 15 matches, boasting an impressive strike rate of 149.28. His role was primarily that of a batter, as the Mumbai Indians frequently utilized him as an Impact Player.
While speaking on JioStar, Chopra asserted that Rohit should take to the field for the full 40 overs instead of spending time on the bench. He noted that opening batsmen are accustomed to being actively engaged throughout the match. “If you’re fit, logically, you should play the entire game and not be substituted. Especially in a chase, coming in as an Impact Player doesn’t make sense. Openers are not used to watching the game unfold from the dugout; they thrive on being in the action and preparing to seize opportunities as they arise,” he explained.
Chopra further remarked on Rohit’s outstanding physical condition, suggesting that the Mumbai Indians would greatly benefit if he remained on the field for the match’s entirety. “Rohit Sharma is currently at his fittest, strongest, and most formidable. His presence on the field for all 40 overs is essential for the Mumbai Indians to fully leverage his capabilities,” he concluded.
The IPL 2026 season is set to kick off on March 28. The initial phase of the tournament will run from March 28 to April 12, as announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The Mumbai Indians will debut in the tournament on March 29 against the Kolkata Knight Riders, while the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will face off against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the season opener.