With IPL 2026 preparations underway and the trade window now open, Mumbai Indians (MI) face a vital transition period. After another trophyless campaign and their exit in the eliminators, the five-time champions, under Hardik Pandya, are expected to rethink their core strategy—especially at the top of the order.
As Rohit Sharma nears 39 years old next season, MI’s management must seriously consider future opening options to ensure sustained success. Here’s a look at three opening batsmen MI can pursue in the current trade window:
1. Priyansh Arya (Punjab Kings)
- Current Team: Punjab Kings
- Age: 24
- 2025 IPL Stats: 475 runs, including 1 century and 2 fifty-plus scores
- Why MI Should Consider:
- An explosive left-hander, Arya delivered a breakout debut season, helping Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings reach the IPL 2025 playoffs.
- He offers youth and consistency—qualities MI need as they look beyond Rohit.
- A potential trade could also boost Punjab’s brand value by bringing in a celebrated star, should Rohit move in exchange.
2. Sai Sudharsan (Gujarat Titans)
- Current Team: Gujarat Titans
- 2025 IPL Stats: 759 runs (Orange Cap holder)
- Why MI Should Consider:
- Sudharsan is known for his reliability at the top and earned the “Mr. Consistent” tag last season.
- His left-handed stability and big runs fit perfectly with MI’s tactical needs as they seek both aggression and security.
- Trading with Gujarat could benefit both teams: MI gets a young top-order anchor, GT gains immense brand value if Rohit joins their ranks.
3. Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals)
- Current Team: Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Potential Availability:
- Reports suggest Samson may leave RR, with CSK and KKR also showing interest.
- 2025 IPL Note:
- Missed half the season due to injury, but RR flourished with Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s performances.
- Why MI Should Consider:
- Samson’s aggressive intent and leadership skills make him an ideal fit at the top.
- Acquiring him could strengthen MI’s lineup and offer long-term captaincy options as well.
Summary Table: MI’s Potential Opening Targets
| Player | Current Team | 2025 IPL Runs | Strengths | Trade Possibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Priyansh Arya | Punjab Kings | 475 | Youth, left-handed, consistent | Could swap with Rohit for brand advantage |
| Sai Sudharsan | Gujarat Titans | 759 | Consistency, runs, stability | GT may swap for Rohit’s market value |
| Sanju Samson | Rajasthan Royals | N/A (injured) | Aggression, experience, leadership | Possible, especially as he considers exit from RR |
What Next for MI?
With Rohit Sharma’s age and MI’s desire for fresh success, bringing in a strong opener through the trade window is more urgent than ever. Targeting proven talents like Priyansh Arya, Sai Sudharsan, or even Sanju Samson could offer MI a renewed edge at the top—ensuring the franchise remains competitive in IPL 2026 and beyond.
