In the wake of Mumbai Indians’ historic announcement naming Hardik Pandya as their new captain, replacing Rohit Sharma after a decade, swirling speculations and rumors about a possible rift within the team have been strongly refuted by the franchise.
The spotlight was on Mumbai Indians as they unveiled Hardik Pandya as their new captain last Friday, concluding Rohit Sharma’s 10-year leadership. However, cryptic social media posts by players like Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah fueled speculations of discord within the team, raising questions about potential player trades.
Mumbai Indians swiftly dispelled these rumors on the eve of the IPL 2024 auction in Dubai, asserting that Rohit Sharma remains an integral part of the team. A senior Mumbai Indians official, speaking to Cricbuzz, declared, “Rohit is not going anywhere, nor will any player. The news reports are totally fake and false. No MI player will be leaving us, nor will be traded by us.”
The official emphasized that every player, including Rohit Sharma, was consulted before the decision to appoint Hardik Pandya as captain was made. “Every player was taken into confidence before the decision was made. Rohit too was informed, and he is very much part of the decision-making process,” clarified the official.
Contrary to reports suggesting trade approaches from Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings for Rohit Sharma, Mumbai Indians rebuffed such claims. Although one of the franchises did approach MI, the offer was rejected, as confirmed by a franchise official. “We would have given anything for Rohit, but we are no longer in the race,” stated the official.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar weighed in on the decision, acknowledging the team’s perspective. He remarked, “The decision they have taken is for the benefit of the team. In the last two years, Rohit’s contribution, even with the bat, has dipped a little bit.”
