With Rohit sustaining a fractured middle finger during the second ODI against England at Cardiff, it is unlikely that he will play any part during MI's qualifying round matches in Raipur, which kicks off with a match against Lahore Lions.
As of now, dashing West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard looks a likely candidate to lead the popular T20 franchise.
Among the senior players, there is Harbhajan Singh, under whom Mumbai Indians won the Champions League T20 in 2012 but according to reliable sources is not too keen on leading the side. Harbhajan, who is fighting to make a comeback is more interested in performing well for the Mukesh Ambani-owned team.
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Aussie great Michael Hussey's place in the playing XI is not assured, which can be a reason that he won't be considered for the hot-seat.
If fit and available, the four first-choice overseas players are likely to be Lendl Simons, Kieron Pollard, Corey Anderson and Lasith Malinga.
The MI will certainly be seeking a replacement for the injured Rohit, who incidentally also sustained a finger fracture during 2011 tour of England.