Likely batting order of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2023 if Rohit Sharma plays as a finisher
Against Bangladesh in the second ODI, Rohit Sharma came out in the lower order as he was injured. Despite the injury, Rohit played one of the best innings from his bat in recent times. This has now given ideas to a few who opine that Rohit can be employed as a finisher not just for Team India but also in the IPL. Definitely, it is a far-fetched thought but it is not an idea that can be ignored. On that note, here, we take a look at the likely batting order of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2023 if Rohit Sharma plays as a finisher.
It needs to be noted that Rohit actually started his career as a finisher in the middle order. He has already done well in that slot. He has struggled to play the moving ball lately. Hence, it won't be a surprise if he also considers moving down the order. Mumbai Indians could try that out, too.
Openers: Ishan Kishan (WK) and Dewald Brevis
Ishan Kishan and Dewald Brevis will be the openers in the likely batting order of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2023 if Rohit Sharma plays as a finisher. Things would become simpler for MI to include Brevis if Rohit plays in the middle order. It would be a complementary opening duo since each of these players can take on their bowlers on the given day. Both are also perfectly capable of playing a long innings. Brevis' leg-spin would also add depth to the squad.
No.3: Suryakumar Yadav
SKY played at No.5 and sometimes at No.4 last season. As we have already seen, his best slot is at No.3. He is the best T20 batter in the game right now and he deserves to play at his best spot. If Rohit comes down the order, SKY can come in at No.3.
No.4: Tilak Varma
It will be Tilak Varma at No.4 in the likely batting order of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2023 if Rohit Sharma plays as a finisher. The Hyderabad cricketer did well in the middle order despite being a top-order batter. Since he does well against spinners, it would be ideal to have him at No.4.
No.5: Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma at No.5, taking on the pacers in the final few overs of the game is a good option for the franchise. With him playing here, the team would also have the experience that would otherwise not be there with the retirement of Kieron Pollard.
No.6: Tim David
Tim David is the replacement for Kieron Pollard and he would take up his slot at No.6. The Aussie showed his hitting skills last season and the management would hope for a similar return next season.
No.7: Ramandeep Singh
This batting slot is not fixed in the likely batting order of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2023 if Rohit Sharma plays as a finisher. Ramandeep Singh is the option that the franchise has in the current lot. But they will surely target players such as Sam Curran who can operate at this role.