MI vs CSK: Rohit Sharma should be used as an impact substitute, says Sanjay Bangar
Sanjay Bangar reckons MI can use Rohit Sharma as an impact sub vs CSK despite injury concerns, highlighting strong form, key player performances, and team balance ahead of the high-stakes clash.
The build-up to another chapter of the Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings rivalry has been dominated by one key question: will Rohit Sharma feature at the Wankhede? With both sides dealing with injury concerns, the spotlight has firmly shifted to team combinations and last-minute calls ahead of one of the Indian Premier League’s most anticipated clashes.
Rohit’s situation, in particular, has sparked debate after the MI opener suffered a hamstring issue against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru earlier this month. Having retired hurt after a quick start, the veteran has since missed games, leaving MI to reassess their approach at the top of the order despite returning to winning ways in their previous outing.
Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar believes there is still a way for MI to utilise Rohit’s experience without taking undue risks. He suggested a flexible role could be the key as they look to maintain momentum.
USE ROHIT AS IMPACT
“Even if it’s purely as a batter or impact player, MI should look to use him. Strong starts are crucial, and the most successful teams this season have had both batting and bowling firing together,” Bangar said on Jiostar.
He stressed that a solid opening partnership could ease the burden on the middle order. “If Rohit and Quinton de Kock can build a solid opening stand, it eases the pressure on Suryakumar Yadav and the middle order. At this stage, MI should consider taking a calculated risk on his fitness and use him as an impact substitute.”
Since Rohit’s injury, MI have faced Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans, registering a dominant 99-run win in their most recent game to snap their losing streak.
MI HIGH ON CONFIDENCE
“Confidence isn’t an issue for MI. The runs are coming from key players, with impactful hundreds by Quinton de Kock in an earlier game and Tilak Varma in the last one,” Bangar said.
He also highlighted positives with the ball. “Jasprit Bumrah taking the new ball was a positive, and the spinners have chipped in as well. Ghazanfar looks like a solid option alongside Mitchell Santner. With Will Jacks available, MI are gradually settling into their best combination.”
Meanwhile, CSK have their own setbacks to deal with. Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the season, while Ayush Mhatre, their standout batter this year, is sidelined with a hamstring injury. The franchise has brought in Akash Madhwal as a replacement.
There is also uncertainty around MS Dhoni’s availability. CSK bowling coach Eric Simons indicated that the final call will rest with Dhoni himself on match day. While the medical staff are satisfied with his condition, his participation remains a major talking point heading into the high-stakes encounter.
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