Aakash Chopra Advocates for Rohit Sharma's Full Match Participation in IPL 2026
Aakash Chopra's Insights on Rohit Sharma's Role
Mumbai (Maharashtra), March 13: Aakash Chopra, a former Indian cricketer turned commentator, has voiced his opinion that Rohit Sharma should play the entire match instead of being utilized as an Impact Player in the upcoming IPL 2026 season. Chopra emphasized that Rohit is currently at his peak fitness, describing him as "the fittest, meanest, and possibly the strongest" he has ever been.
In the previous IPL season, Rohit Sharma had a commendable performance, amassing 418 runs across 15 matches with an impressive strike rate of 149.28. The Mumbai franchise frequently deployed him as an Impact Player during IPL 2025, which limited his involvement to just batting.
During a discussion on JioStar, Chopra argued that Rohit should be on the field for the full duration of the match rather than being substituted in. He pointed out that opening batsmen are accustomed to being active throughout the game, rather than sitting out for 20 overs.
“If you are fit, it makes sense to play the entire game without substitutions. Particularly when batting second, coming in as an Impact Player is not ideal. Openers typically do not spend 20 overs in the dugout; they are prepared to hit the ground running,” Aakash Chopra stated.
Chopra further remarked on Rohit's excellent physical condition, suggesting that the Mumbai Indians would gain more advantage if he remains on the field for all 40 overs.
“Rohit Sharma is at his fittest and strongest right now, so he should be on the field for the entire match. This is how the Mumbai Indians can maximize his potential,” he added.
The IPL 2026 season is set to commence on March 28. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently released the schedule for the initial phase of the tournament, which will run from March 28 to April 12.
In the opening match, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will face off against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), while the Mumbai Indians will kick off their campaign on March 29 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).