Rohit Sharma set to join Mumbai for Syed Mushtaq Ali knockouts

Rohit Sharma has confirmed his availability for the Mumbai team in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 knockouts, providing a major boost ahead of the business end of the domestic season. The veteran opener, who stepped away from T20 Internationals after India’s World Cup triumph in November 2023, has not played any T20 cricket for over two years. He is expected to join the team once the ongoing ODI series against South Africa concludes on Saturday. The 2025-26 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a domestic T20 tournament, is being held from 26 November to 18 December, with the knockout phase scheduled between 12 and 18 December.

Mumbai head into the knockouts as one of the most dominant sides of the tournament, finishing the league stage with a clean sweep, four wins in four matches in Elite Group A. Their campaign has been powered by sharp all-round performances and the emergence of exciting young talent, particularly opener Ayush Mhatre, whose back-to-back centuries have firmly placed him in the national spotlight.

Rohit’s return, however, has stirred mixed reactions. At 38, some feel the format should increasingly make room for younger power-hitters, especially with several promising players already proving their mettle. Yet Mumbai’s management views his experience and temperament as crucial assets in high-pressure knockout scenarios, where tactical awareness often surpasses sheer hitting power. Importantly, his presence is also expected to bring added spotlight to the tournament itself, with a senior India star stepping back into domestic T20 cricket at a decisive stage. While Mumbai has not officially confirmed team changes, it is likely that one of the current openers may be replaced to accommodate Rohit, given that he usually opens the innings.

As Mumbai gear up for the knockouts, the focus will be on blending Rohit’s seasoned leadership with the vibrant form of a youthful squad. If the combination clicks, his return could be the extra push the title-contending side needs to go all the way.