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The IPL 2026<\/strong> season has been anything but smooth for the Mumbai Indians<\/strong><\/a>, but just when their campaign seemed to be slipping away, a statement win has reignited belief. Their thrilling six-wicket chase against Lucknow Super Giants<\/strong> at the Wankhede Stadium wasn\u2019t just another victory\u2014it was a warning shot to the rest of the league. And according to Sunil Gavaskar, this resurgence could seriously disrupt the playoff race.<\/p>\n At the heart of Mumbai\u2019s revival lies Rohit Sharma<\/strong><\/a>, who looks like a batter reborn. Returning after injury, Rohit\u2019s 84 off just 44 balls wasn\u2019t merely a match-winning effort\u2014it was a statement of intent.<\/p>\n Gavaskar pointed out a subtle but crucial shift in Rohit\u2019s mindset. Since stepping away from leadership duties, the veteran opener appears freer and more focused on his primary role\u2014scoring runs. Instead of playing short bursts, he now aims to bat deeper into the innings, ensuring maximum impact.<\/p>\n That evolution was evident against LSG. Rohit wasn\u2019t just attacking\u2014he was constructing an innings. His trademark pull shots punished anything short, while his drives through the covers showcased timing and control. What stood out even more was his authority against spin, particularly how he confidently hit against the turn\u2014something that signals clarity and confidence in his approach.<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cI have been watching Rohit Sharma closely over the last year. Ever since he was removed as captain in white-ball cricket and the IPL, he has focused more on his batting. He scored runs in the ODI series against Australia, did well in the home series, and now he is doing the same in the IPL,\u201d<\/em> said Gavaskar on Star Sports.<\/p>\n Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar takes aim at MI star Jasprit Bumrah for blunder against LSG in IPL 2026<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Currently placed near the bottom, Mumbai Indians might not look like typical playoff contenders. But that\u2019s exactly what makes them dangerous. Teams fighting for qualification often expect easier points against lower-ranked sides\u2014MI are now threatening to flip that script.<\/p>\n Gavaskar believes that if Rohit maintains this form, Mumbai could derail the campaigns of multiple teams in the coming weeks. In a tightly contested league, even one unexpected loss can alter the standings dramatically. And MI, with nothing to lose, suddenly have the freedom to play fearless cricket\u2014a combination that often produces the most unpredictable results.<\/p>\n \u201cWe saw a focused Rohit Sharma against LSG. If he continues this form, the Mumbai Indians will hurt the playoff hopes of many teams in the remaining matches,\u201d<\/em> added Gavaskar.<\/p>\nRohit Sharma\u2019s magic return fuels fresh energy in MI camp<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Sunil Gavaskar on how MI can impact other team\u2019s playoff hopes<\/strong><\/h2>\n