Akash Chopra Considered the role of Rohit Sharma But Mumbai Indiansstating that the experienced opener should be involved for the entire duration of the match rather than just being used as an impact player. Indian Premier League.Expressing his views, the former India opener said that if Rohit is fully fit, it would be more logical for him to be part of the game from start to finish rather than appearing only as a batting substitute. According to Chopra, restricting a player of Rohit’s caliber to just a few overs with the bat would not maximize his overall contribution to the team.“Logically, if you are fit, you should play the whole game and not be a substitute. Especially when you are batting at number two, you should not come in as an impact player. An opener is not used to watching from the dugout for 20 overs of a match,” Chopra told Jio Hotstar.Chopra further explained that opening batsmen usually prepare for a match by being involved in the game from the start, which helps them get into the right mindset before going out to bat.“Opening batsmen are used to being on the field, prepare accordingly and then hit the ground running. Rohit Sharma is the fittest, weakest and probably the strongest right now, so he should be on the ground for the entire 40 overs. In fact, that’s how Mumbai Indians will be able to make full use of Rohit Sharma,” he added.Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh They shared similar sentiments, suggesting that Rohit’s experience and leadership qualities make him too valuable to be restricted to a replacement role. He asserted that Rohit’s presence on the field could be crucial for the captain. Hardik PandyaEspecially during stressful situations.Harbhajan said, “Rohit Sharma has been used as the 12th man who only bats, but I think the kind of leader he has been, a player like him should come on the field.Rohit, who led Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles during his captaincy, is often used as an impact player by the franchise during the 2025 season. This move sparked a debate among fans at the time.The veteran opener had a tough campaign last year, scoring just 240 runs in the entire tournament. As the new season approaches, Rohit will be keen to turn things around and make a strong impact with the bat.
