KKR vs MI IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma may have stumbled in the ongoing season, but the ex-Mumbai Indians captain ignited the atmosphere in Kolkata, just one day before their clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders. Ahead of the upcoming match, the Mumbai-based franchise posted a video of an energetic practice session, featuring Rohit bantering with Abhishek Nayar, the Kolkata-based franchise's head coach and one of his closest friends.
In that video, Rohit animatedly mimicked Nayar's bowling action during practice, sprinting toward an empty set of stumps and unleashing a delivery. The ball smashed the middle stump, sparking laughter among the players.
Rohit burst out, "Kya middle stump Udaya bey?" Nayar, watching from afar, cracked up, unable to contain his laughter at this display.
Watch the video here:
KKR's season on the edge
Though Rohit's antics triggered laughter, the upcoming match looms large for the Ajinkya Rahane-led side. They must conquer the Mumbai Indians to keep playoff hopes burning.
If they stumble in this match, they crash out of the playoff race, but if they triumph, they stay afloat, relying on other results. The IPL 2026 match between the Punjab Kings and the Lucknow Super Giants will ultimately determine their future.
The Kolkata-based franchise has stormed back after a disappointing start, winning five of its last six matches. But this surge arrived too late, as they endured a six-match winless streak at the start of this year.
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MI seeks one final statement
The Hardik Pandya-led side, already eliminated from the playoff race, aims to disrupt KKR's plans. The former champions have muddled through the season, battling injuries and uneven performances from several players.
Rohit flashed glimpses of his old form, despite grappling with fitness woes, while captain Hardik Pandya will rejoin the side after an injury.