Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Mumbai Indians can use Rohit Sharma as an impact player ahead of IPL 2026. Rohit has all the experience under his belt and it would be interesting to note if captain Hardik Pandya would need his leadership skills on the field.
Rohit has amassed 7046 runs in 272 IPL matches at an average of 29.73 and a strike rate of 132.10, including 47 fifties and two centuries.
Meanwhile, during the 2025 season, Rohit was often used as an impact substitute.
Irfan Pathan said on his YouTube Channel, “The key will be his mindset and how Mumbai Indians utilize it. Last year, he was used very effectively as an impact player, and I believe it is very important for him to stay on the field. On the field, he can assist the captain and his mind is always working as a leader. MI can use him as an impact player. But when you have a player who has been a successful captain and has won trophies, you should make maximum use of him. Bring him onto the field and leverage his leadership to the fullest.”
Rohit scored 418 runs in IPL 2025 at an average of 29.85 and a strike rate of almost 150.
Pathan added, “In the 2025 season, Rohit Sharma’s strike rate improved, his average went up, and his performances were much better, and he also scored big runs. He will bring that positive into this season. Rohit Sharma’s batting is crucial for the team because when you watch him in the IPL, you know he’s a much better player than this. Whatever he did last year, he will look to take it even further.”
The 2007 T20 World Cup final hero said the upcoming season could be a breakthrough edition for Tilak Varma.
“Another factor that I think will be very important is Tilak Varma. Tilak Varma has developed into a fast-bowling hitter, and because of that, I believe he will have a big impact for Mumbai Indians, provided he is played regularly at number three. If that happens, this could be his breakthrough season. When a player’s confidence and performance graph rises, especially by playing in different positions, it allows you to get the best out of him, which will also be very beneficial for the team.”
Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium on 29th March.
