Is Rohit Sharma playing today's MI vs LSG IPL 2024 match?

The Mumbai Indians (MI) will take on the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the league-stage finale of IPL 2024 for both teams at the Wankhede Stadium on May 17. While LSG has tapered off in the second half of the tournament to be almost out of the playoff contention barring a mathematical miracle, MI are officially eliminated from the playoff race.

With only 4 wins in 13 outings, Hardik Pandya's side are currently at the bottom of the points table. However, a win gives them a chance to escape a dubious wooden spoon finish.

At the toss, MI made several changes for this inconsequential contest to provide the reserves an opportunity. Yet, fans were surprised to see veteran opener Rohit Sharma not part of the playing XI despite skipper Hardik Pandya not mentioning the same.

"We will bowl first. Just always in Wankhede chasing is better. It comes nicer in the evening and we continue that. You know its always about playing for the badge. What character we bring individually today it's very important. We know where we stand but ending the tournament with a win will always be appreciated. It gives us more freedom to go out and express ourselves and play a good brand of cricket. Not much to think about. A couple of changes. Jassi is not there so Arjun plays. Tilak unfortunately has an injury and Brevis comes in. Tim misses out as well," said Hardik at the toss.

Yet, Rohit was the first name on the Impact Sub list, which should mean he would come into open the batting during MI's run-chase.

The 36-year-old has struggled for consistency throughout the season, scoring 349 runs at an average of under 30.

MI Impact Subs: Rohit Sharma, Tim David, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya, Shams Mulani

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Rohit Sharma endured a dismal outing in the first MI-LSG clash of IPL 2024

Rohit Sharma endured a poor outing with the bat in the first meeting between MI and LSG at Lucknow on April 30.

Batting first, the former MI skipper was dismissed for only 4 off 5 deliveries by left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan in the second over of the contest. The wicket set the tone for a disappointing display with the bat for MI, as they finished on a below-par 144/7 in 20 overs.

In reply, LSG completed the chase despite a late stutter by 4 wickets with four balls to spare. Batting all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was the Player for the Match for scoring a 45-ball 62 and picking up a wicket.