In a surprising move, Mumbai Indians announced Hardik Pandya as their new captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2024, replacing the highly successful Rohit Sharma, who led the team to five IPL trophies. This decision came after Hardik returned to the franchise last month through a high-profile trade from Gujarat Titans, where he captained for the past two seasons.
The Mumbai Indians expressed their gratitude to Rohit Sharma, acknowledging his exceptional leadership since 2013, when the team won its first IPL trophy. Rohit had been instrumental in securing victories in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020, making Mumbai Indians one of the most successful franchises alongside Chennai Super Kings. The change in leadership was described as part of the team’s future planning, with MI thanking Rohit for his exemplary service.
“Ro,
In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to Believe. In victories & defeats, you asked us to Smile. 10 years & 6 trophies later, here we are. Our forever captain your legacy will be etched in Blue & Gold. Thank you, Captain RO,” wrote MI on X, formerly Twitter.
Mahela Jayawardene praised Rohit’s leadership
Mahela Jayawardene, MI’s Global Head of Performance, praised Rohit’s leadership, highlighting his unparalleled success in making MI one of the most loved teams in IPL history. The team expressed eagerness to continue benefiting from Rohit’s guidance and experience both on and off the field.
Rohit Sharma, fresh from leading India to the ODI World Cup final, faced disappointment after the team fell short against Australia. The change in his captaincy role in MI raises questions about his future in the shortest format, with speculations about his participation in future T20 World Cups. Despite a potential absence from ODI World Cups, there remains a possibility for Rohit to lead India in the T20 format, with the next T20 World Cup just six months away.
A notable observation revolves around the non-inclusion of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in India’s T20 squad since their semifinal exit at the World Cup in Australia last year. This circumstance introduces a layer of curiosity regarding their future roles in the T20 format, prompting fans and cricket enthusiasts to wonder about the paths that lie ahead for these two experienced players in the shortest format of the game.
