Big injury update on Rohit Sharma ahead of high-octane MI vs CSK IPL 2026 clash

The stage is set for the high-octane IPL 2026 clash between heavyweights Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). As anticipation for this 'El Clasico' of IPL intensifies, MI have provided a crucial update regarding the fitness of their former captain Rohit Sharma, who has been sidelined following an injury.

Will Rohit Sharma play in MI vs CSK clash?

Rohit sustained a hamstring injury during the fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), an issue that forced him to retire hurt and prevented him from returning to the crease. Since that match, the star batter has missed two consecutive games for the five-time champions, with the team opting to field Danish Malewar in his place during their recent encounter against the Gujarat Titans.

However, there is cause for optimism regarding his recovery. An MI spokesperson provided an update indicating that Rohit is actively working toward full fitness. He was recently spotted in the nets—albeit with his injured leg strapped—testing his readiness. Further signaling a positive trend, he was also seen enjoying time with his children just ahead of the team’s latest practice session. While his official availability for the upcoming clash against CSK remains to be confirmed, these recent developments offer a promising sign for his potential return to the pitch.

The MI franchise has confirmed that Rohit is still being assessed and a final decision on his availability for the key clash will be taken at the toss, right before the match.

Tilak Varma recently delivered a stunning century in his last match, marking a significant return to form after a lean patch that saw him manage just 43 runs across five previous innings. During the pre-match press conference, the young batter credited Rohit Sharma for providing him with the confidence and perspective needed to turn his performance around. Sharing a piece of advice he received from his senior teammate, Tilak recalled Rohit saying, "Tu 15 balls khel le, uske baad humein pata hai tu kya kar sakta hai" (Play 15 balls, we know what you can do after that!).

When the conversation shifted to his preferred batting position, Tilak opened up about his mindset regarding his role within the team's lineup and where he feels he is most effective.