as soon as IPL 2026 Coming closer, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra Mumbai Indians (MI) We have shared our predicted playing XI for the 2018–19 season – and it has some surprising twists. MI, known for their star-studded lineup, look to be one of the strongest contenders once again this season, and Chopra believes they have all the requirements to win.
IPL 2026: Aakash Chopra’s playing XI for Mumbai Indians
Analyzing his team on his YouTube channel, Chopra selected a batting-heavy lineup full of depth. At the top, he added the experienced Rohit Sharma And supported Quinton de Kock, followed by a strong middle order comprising Tilak Verma, Suryakumar Yadav and captain Hardik Pandya.
“My opening combination: Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock, Tilak Verma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Will Jacques initially, and after that I am keeping Naman Dheer at No. 7,” Chopra said.
However, it was his bowling choices that attracted the most attention. Chopra chose South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch over experienced paceman Trent Boult, while he preferred young Afghanistan spinner Allah Ghazanfar over Mitchell Santner.
“Then I think you should have Corbin Bosch at No. 8, Deepak Chahar at No. 9, Jasprit Bumrah at No. 10 and Allah Ghazanfar at No. 11. Start like this – Allah Ghazanfar’s spin, Corbin Bosch’s bowling and batting. I am not able to make room for Trent Boult in the beginning, although Mumbai may think otherwise.”
This combination reflects a clear strategy – balancing the team with multi-skilled players and bringing an X-factor through Ghazanfar’s mysterious spin. It is a bold approach, especially in terms of leaving out an experienced name like Boult, but it could be successful if the young players perform.
Rohit Sharma backed to shine in MI’s sixth IPL title hopes
Although Chopra’s team selection generated interest, his biggest decision was to back Rohit Sharma as Mumbai Indians’ highest run-scorer this season. Despite a relatively average IPL 2025 campaign, Chopra believes the former skipper is ready to bounce back.
“Who will be the highest run-scorer of this team this year? Really tough question. I am thinking of Rohit Sharma because he plays very little cricket now. He played in January. The series did not go well. So he must be hungry,” Chopra clarified.
The logic is simple – relaxation, inspiration, and a point to prove. With fewer matches in recent months, Rohit is expected to remain mentally fresh and physically prepared, which could translate into big performances.
Chopra also did not shy away from setting high expectations for MI.
“This is 100 per cent a team that deserves to win the trophy. If they don’t win, they only have themselves to blame, although it’s also true that no matter how good a team is on paper, it doesn’t mean a trophy.”
With proven match-winners like Rohit, Suryakumar, Hardik, and Jasprit Bumrah, MI certainly has the potential to challenge for the title once again. Chopra also indicated that anything less than a strong title effort would raise serious questions.
As soon as MI on 29th March Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) The focus will be on the performance of this star-studded lineup.
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