with IPL 2026 just around the corner, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra shared his predicted 11th over Mumbai Indians (MI) – and comes with a few surprising twists. Known for their star-studded line-up, MI again look like one of the strongest contenders this season and Chopra believes they have what it takes to go all the way.
IPL 2026: Akash Chopra’s 11th cap for Mumbai Indians
Chopra, who broke down his team on his YouTube channel, went for a batting-heavy line-up with plenty of depth. He supported the experienced duo at the top Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock followed by a strong middle order featuring Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav and captain Hardik Pandya.
“My opening combination: Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Will Jacks to start and I keep Naman Dhir at No.7 after that” Chopra said.
However, it was his bowling options that stood out the most. Chopra picked South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch, while backing young Afghan spinner Allah Ghazanfari over Mitchell Santner.
“Then I think you should keep Corbin Bosch at 8, Deepak Chahar at 9, Jasprit Bumrah at 10 and Allah Ghazanfar at 11. Start like this – Allah Ghazanfar’s spin, Corbin Bosch’s bowling and batting. I can’t make room for Trent Boult at the start, though Mumbai is different.”
This combination reflects a clear strategy – balance the side with very skilled players and at the same time bring the X-factor with Ghazanfar’s mysterious spin. It’s a bold approach, especially leaving out an experienced name like Boult, but it could pay off if the youngsters deliver.
Rohit Sharma helped MI win their sixth IPL title
While Chopra’s team selection has sparked interest, his biggest challenge has been Rohit Sharma’s finish as Mumbai Indians’ top run-scorer this season. Despite a relatively average IPL 2025 campaign, Chopra believes the former captain is ready for a comeback.
“Who will be the top run-scorer in this team this year? It’s really tough. I’m thinking Rohit Sharma because he’s playing very little cricket now. He played in January. The series didn’t go well. So he’ll be hungry.” Chopra explained.
The logic is simple – relaxation, motivation and a point to prove. With fewer matches in recent months, Rohit is expected to be mentally fresh and physically ready, which could translate into big performances.
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Chopra also did not shy away from setting high expectations for MI as a whole.
“This is a team that 100 per cent deserves to win the cup. They have only themselves to blame if they don’t win, although no matter how good a team is on paper, it doesn’t mean the cup.”
With a core that includes proven winners like Rohit, Suryakumar, Hardik and Jasprit Bumrah, MI certainly have the firepower to challenge for the title once again. Chopra even hinted that anything short of a strong title push would raise serious questions.
While preparing to launch a campaign against MI Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) On March 29, the spotlight will be on how this star-studded squad will perform.
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