Rohit Sharma and Abhishek Nayar (Video grabs)
NEW DELHI:Rohit Sharmamay be enduring a stop-start IPL 2026 campaign, but the formerMumbai Indiansskipper ensured there was no shortage of laughter at Eden Gardens on match eve.Ahead of Mumbai Indians’ league game against Kolkata Knight Riders, MI shared a fun training-ground video featuring Rohit mimicking KKR coachAbhishek Nayar— one of his closest friends in Indian cricket.In the clip, Rohit copied Nayar’s bowling action during nets, running in theatrically before delivering to an empty set of stumps. To everyone’s surprise, the ball crashed into the middle stump, leaving players around him in stitches.Rohit, unable to contain his excitement, was heard shouting: “Kya middle stump udaya bey.” Even Nayar, watching from the KKR camp nearby, burst into laughter at the scene.WATCH:KKR’s season on the edgeWhile Rohit’s antics lightened the mood, Wednesday’s contest carries far greater weight for KKR. The side led byAjinkya Rahanemust beat Mumbai Indians to stay alive in the race for the final playoff berth.A defeat would officially end KKR’s campaign, while even a victory may still leave them dependent on other results. Punjab Kings’ clash against Lucknow Super Giants later this week could ultimately decide Kolkata’s fate.KKR have staged a late revival after a disastrous start, winning five of their last six matches. Yet that surge may have come too late after their six-match winless stretch at the beginning of the season.MI seek one final statementMumbai Indians, already out of contention, now have the chance to spoil KKR’s push. The five-time champions have endured a forgettable campaign, with injuries and inconsistent form hurting their season.Rohit has shown flashes of touch despite fitness concerns, while skipperHardik Pandyais expected to return after injury.
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