The countdown is on for one of the IPL's most electrifying rivalries, but Mumbai Indians fans are holding their breath over a key question: will Rohit Sharma take the field against Chennai Super Kings on May 2?

On the eve of this blockbuster clash, MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene kept the suspense alive, offering only a cautious update on the veteran opener's fitness. "It's progressed well. He's working really hard to get back," Jayawardene told reporters, confirming that Rohit had been seen batting in the nets in Chennai on Friday. However, he stopped short of guaranteeing a return, adding that the decision rests on how the 39-year-old feels after practice and the medical team's assessment.

Rohit's absence has been a significant blow for Mumbai Indians, who sit ninth on the table with just two wins from eight matches. The timing of his hamstring injury, sustained while batting on 19 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, couldn't have been worse. It came shortly after he lit up the season opener against Kolkata Knight Riders with a blistering 78 off just 38 balls—a performance that reminded everyone of his game-changing ability.

With only six matches remaining, Mumbai's playoff hopes hang by a thread. They need to win every single game to stay alive, making Rohit's potential return against CSK a potential game-changer. The 39-year-old celebrated his birthday on Thursday, and the sight of him training in the nets gave fans a glimmer of hope amid a season that has seen the team experiment with 22 different players in search of the right combination.

Will the 'Hitman' be back to lead the charge against their arch-rivals? All eyes are on the final call from the medical team—and on that crucial toss at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.