Former India captain Anil Kumble has heaped praise on Rohit Sharma, calling his latest IPL 2026 performance a sign of a remarkable “reinvention.” The Mumbai Indians star turned back the clock with a stunning 78 off just 38 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders, leading from the front in a record-breaking chase at Wankhede Stadium.

Chasing a daunting 221, Rohit Sharma looked in complete control from the outset. His commanding strokeplay, combined with effortless six-hitting, dismantled KKR’s bowling attack. Alongside Ryan Rickelton, he stitched together a match-defining 148-run opening partnership in just 72 balls, setting the platform for the Mumbai Indians to secure their first opening-game win in an IPL season since 2012.

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Speaking about the innings, Anil Kumble said, “Rohit Sharma seems to have arrived in his 2.0 avatar, and his innings showed he is ready to dominate again.” He further added, “The way he hit the ball all around the ground reminded me of his prime.” Kumble also pointed out how Rohit made quality bowlers like Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine look ordinary on the night.

The former India coach also highlighted Rohit Sharma’s improved fitness and preparation. “He has worked a lot on his fitness… it takes time to get your rhythm back, but this was a fantastic innings,” Kumble noted. He emphasised that Rohit’s ability to attack from the first ball and clear boundaries with ease signals serious intent for the rest of the tournament.

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Kumble’s admiration carries added weight given his past association with Mumbai Indians. During his stint as mentor from 2013 to 2015, Rohit was handed the captaincy mid-season and immediately delivered results, guiding MI to their maiden IPL title in 2013 and another in 2015.

Since then, Rohit has built a legacy with five IPL titles, placing him alongside MS Dhoni as one of the most successful captains in league history. If this latest innings is any indication, IPL 2026 could see Rohit Sharma at his dominant best once again.