Mumbai Indians could be preparing for another major leadership change ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season, with Rohit Sharma emerging as the frontrunner to reclaim the captaincy. The franchise’s retention deadline is November 17, and the expected departure of Hardik Pandya has increased speculation about who will lead the five-time champions next season.
Interestingly, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner may have dropped a subtle hint about Mumbai Indians’ next skipper during an interaction with Rohit Sharma following the rain-abandoned third ODI between India and New Zealand at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
During the customary post-match handshake, Rohit greeted Santner by calling out, “Mitchi.” The New Zealand captain responded with a rather interesting “Yes, skipper,” prompting Rohit to reply, “Thanks, man.” Although the exchange appeared friendly and humorous, the use of the word ‘skipper’ has sparked discussions about Rohit’s possible return to the Mumbai Indians captaincy.
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Hardik Pandya is reportedly set to leave Mumbai Indians, with a potential trade involving Punjab Kings (PBKS) awaiting official confirmation. Under the proposed deal, Arshdeep Singh is expected to join Mumbai, leaving the captaincy position open. Rohit, who previously led the franchise to five IPL titles, is considered a strong candidate to take charge again.
Rohit Sharma: “Mitchi”
Mitchell Santner: “Hello, skipper”
Rohit: “Thanks, man”
It’s now almost confirmed that Rohit Sharma will be leading Mumbai Indians. https://t.co/O4Wt02iN7D
— Rohshh45 (@rohshh45) November 10, 2026
Mumbai Indians have also undergone significant changes to their coaching setup ahead of IPL 2027. The franchise has reportedly appointed Kieron Pollard as head coach, while Mahela Jayawardene and bowling coach Lasith Malinga have been released from their respective roles. These changes follow a disappointing ninth-place finish in the previous season.
Rohit’s leadership record makes him a natural contender for the position. He guided Mumbai Indians to IPL titles in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, establishing the franchise as one of the most successful teams in the competition. Between 2013 and 2023, Mumbai played 163 matches under his captaincy, winning 91, losing 68 and drawing four. His win-loss ratio stood at 1.33, with an overall win percentage of 57.05.
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Meanwhile, Santner also remains an important part of Mumbai’s plans. The left-arm spinner previously represented Chennai Super Kings for five seasons before joining Mumbai Indians at the 2025 mega auction. Across 17 matches for Mumbai over two seasons, he has claimed 15 wickets while maintaining an economy rate below eight.
His previous campaign was interrupted by a shoulder injury sustained while attempting a catch, forcing him out of the competition. Santner is expected to return to action and is reportedly in line for retention. While his exchange with Rohit has fuelled speculation, Mumbai Indians are yet to officially confirm their captaincy plans for IPL 2027.
