In a surprising turn of events, Mumbai Indians (MI) announced Hardik Pandya as their new captain, replacing the highly successful Rohit Sharma. According to an Indian Express report, the captaincy speculation had been brewing since the eye-popping trade deal that brought Pandya back to MI from Gujarat Titans.
The star all-rounder, released in 2022, returned to MI in an all-cash deal just 20 days prior. Sources close to the franchise revealed that Pandya had set a condition for his return – he would only come back if offered the captaincy role. MI, after consultations, agreed to this clause.
Rohit Sharma, informed about Mumbai Indians’ roadmap and the need for an immediate change in captaincy, reportedly agreed to play under Pandya in the upcoming season. MI’s global head of performance, Mahela Jayawardene, stated, “It is part of legacy building and staying true to the MI philosophy of being future-ready.”
The release expressed gratitude to Rohit Sharma, acknowledging his exceptional leadership since 2013, which included numerous IPL crowns and an undefeated record in finals. With Pandya taking over, it marks the end of a glorious era for Rohit Sharma as MI’s captain.
