R Ashwin fires huge statement on Rohit Sharma’s possible return in MI vs LSG IPL 2026 match

Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin believes ace opener Rohit Sharma will miss the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) upcoming IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 4. The veteran opener has missed the side’s last five matches after sustaining a hamstring injury earlier in the tournament.

MI has unfortunately struggled in his absence, losing seven of its nine matches thus far this season. They are unlikely to qualify for the playoffs even if they win their remaining five games.

Thus, Ashwin, on his YouTube channel, suggested changes MI could ponder over, saying (20:20):

“MI should rest Jasprit Bumrah and give someone else a chance to see what they can do for next season. I am doubtful if Rohit Sharma will return for this match.”

Jasprit Bumrah has endured a rare poor season, picking up only three wickets at an average of 94.66 and an economy of 8.60 in nine outings.

“Tactically, Rishabh Pant has not been the greatest” – R Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin expressed disappointment at LSG skipper Rishabh Pant ahead of the side’s must-win clash against MI. LSG are currently at the bottom of the points table with only two wins in eight matches.

Pant has struggled as a captain and batter, averaging 27 at a strike rate of 126.84 in eight games.

“Last year, bowling was their biggest issue. This year, they have so many fast bowlers that they can set up two academies. The bowling has delivered for them this season. But tactically, Rishabh Pant has not been the greatest. The batting hasn’t fired at all. Rishabh has to take it upon himself, as there has been too much up and down in the batting order,” said Ashwin (via the aforementioned source).

Ashwin also suggested personnel and batting order changes LSG must ponder for the game against MI.

“Rishabh had to open this season. If your captain is in good form, the tournament will look different for your side. Pant must open and they must play Josh Inglis as Wankhede will suit him. Inglis is an intelligent player who’ll take advantage of the side boundaries and the lackluster MI bowling. Inglis can replace any of their overseas players, as no one has really done that great for them. If they do this, LSG holds a small edge,” he stated.

A loss against MI will leave LSG on the brink of missing the playoffs for a third consecutive IPL season.