In Mumbai, March 17 Mahela Jayawardene, the head coach of Mumbai Indians, stated that a "much fitter and highly committed" Rohit Sharma has been actively involved in skill development leading up to the 2026 IPL.
Having retired from T20Is, Rohit last played for India in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand in January, and Jayawardene is looking forward to Rohit leading the team.
"I think he has been putting in a lot of work behind the scenes," Jayawardene told reporters.
"(He) has been focusing on skill development in the last week. He joined the training camp on the first day, and he looked very good."
"I'm looking forward to seeing Rohit lead the team," he added.
Jayawardene also praised Suryakumar Yadav, India's T20I captain, for his leadership in the T20 World Cup, where he led the team to a record third title.
"SKY is a class operator. He always delivers when it matters," Jayawardene said.
"Yes, consistency is something he is working on. But I believe he will continue to lead the team effectively."
Jayawardene also highlighted the hard work of Jasprit Bumrah, India's bowler, who has been closely observed.
"Jassi is a special player. His work ethic and approach to the game are crucial," Jayawardene said.
"His performances in crucial moments for India in the World Cup were exceptional. I have seen this closely, and I understand the thought process behind his actions."
Jayawardene noted that India performed well towards the end of the tournament, culminating in their T20 World Cup victory and the Women's ODI World Cup triumph, which will inspire a new generation of players, particularly in the MI Junior camp.
"The women's team winning the World Cup, along with the men's team, has inspired a new generation," he said.
"I am happy to see their enthusiasm and performance. Our boys will continue to inspire cricketers, and I am proud of players like Rohit, Hardik, Surya, Tilak, and Jasprit."
"In a World Cup, everyone needs to perform well because it is a challenging tournament. Every match was tough, and different players stepped up and delivered. This is how you win a World Cup," Jayawardene said.
"Obviously, they performed very well towards the end. I am happy that four Mumbai Indians players played in the World Cup."
Jayawardene stated that Mumbai Indians have a good selection headache, as they have several top performers from the T20 World Cup, including England's Will Jacks and New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner.
"Absolutely, but I am happy to have this challenge rather than no challenge. Not just Jacks, but Sherfane, Ryan, and Quinton de Kock," he said.
"(And) Santner, the New Zealand captain, is also part of the team. We have a great group, and we have prepared well for the World Cup."
"Yes, it will be a healthy challenge for me. But everyone knows how we operate in the camp. We will make the right decisions at the right time. It will be tough decisions, but we will ensure that the best decisions are made."
Jayawardene also mentioned that Mumbai Indians have given an extended break to the India's World Cup winners.
"We came close last year, but we were not good enough. Every year, our aim is to reach the final," he said.
"But I know it is a long season, so preseason will start the way we usually start, with hard work and introducing new players. With our World Cup winners, we have given them a bit of an extended break, so they will join us next weekend."
"The overseas players will also arrive soon and join us for training before the first game," he added.