Former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Rohit Sharma’s unexpected ouster as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain for the IPL 2024 may have surprised the senior player.
Despite his huge success as MI captain, Rohit Sharma was replaced by Hardik Pandya when the all-rounder returned to the team in an all-cash deal with the Gujarat Titans (GT). Given Rohit’s immaculate record as captain, the selection drew strong criticism, particularly among MI fans.
The man, aged 36, has captained the team since 2013. His guidance helped them claim a record-equaling 5 IPL championships.
Harbhajan, speaking on Star Sports’ IPL Daily Show, expressed hope that the move will help the franchise play better.
“I hope it’s for the betterment of the Mumbai Indians going forward. You know, Rohit has been a true leader and a champion player for Mumbai Indians and India as well. Knowing him, after winning so many trophies for MI and done so well at the international level, it must have come as a shock to him to suddenly not be part of the leadership group.”
Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh opines that Rohit, though not captain, will contribute to decisions. The off-spinner suggests his influence won’t diminish completely. Retaining some involvement seems likely, even
“I’m sure he’s going to be involved in some way or the other but we have seen Rohit growing as a player and captain and winning those five trophies. That speaks volumes about his captaincy. I don’t know; the management has taken the decision and I hope everyone takes it in the right spirit and Mumbai Indians plays like a champion side.”
Harbhajan Singh
Despite their unprecedented success with five titles between 2013 and 2020, MI has suffered in the previous three seasons. After missing the playoffs in 2021 and 2022, the team was eliminated by GT in Qualifier 2 last season.
“He is someone who thrives on challenges” – Harbhajan Singh on Hardik Pandya
Harbhajan Singh showed backing for Hardik Pandya. He noted the all-rounder rises to tough tasks like captaining the Mumbai Indians.
Despite reservations over his choice as MI captain, the 30-year-old has shown to be a capable captain. Hardik led GT to great success in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, helping the team win in their first participation in 2022 and as runners-up last year.
“He (Hardik) is someone who thrives on challenges; he has done well for GT, winning the title in the first year and runners-up the next. This goes to show that he is a leader. He is now very quiet, operates well. So I feel he has got all the qualities of a leader.”
Harbhajan Singh
Hardik has also captained Team India in Twenty20 Internationals since the 2022 World Cup, winning 10 of his 16 matches.
He will begin his MI leadership with a highly anticipated match against GT in Ahmedabad on March 24.