Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels exhaustion has played a significant influence in Rohit Sharma’s recent batting troubles in the IPL 2024. The 37-year-old started the season superbly before seeing a significant drop in form in the last few games for the Mumbai Indians (MI).
Rohit Sharma has scored only 33 runs in his past five innings at a pathetic 6.60 average, with four single-digit scores. Despite eventually snapping the team’s four-game losing trend with a victory over SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) last night, the former MI skipper scored only four runs off five deliveries.
Speaking on Star Sports, Clarke suggested that a break may be beneficial to the struggling Rohit Sharma, but confessed that the prospects of a break are slim.
“In my view, he might be feeling a bit fatigued as well. A break to freshen up could do wonders for him, but as the Indian captain and a key player for Mumbai Indians, you’re not getting a break. So he’s going to have to find form.”
Michael Clarke
He added:
“I saw him the other day before the last game batting in the nets when his back was a little bit stiff. He was in a great mood. He’s happy, which is a really good sign. He doesn’t seem to be struggling with his timing; it’s just a matter of getting out.”
Michael Clarke
Even though Rohit had a tough time lately, his stats in IPL 2024 are better than before. The star batsman scored 330 runs at an average of 30. His strike rate was 152.77 in 12 matches.
“Hopefully, he stresses less and focusses on his game” – Michael Clarke
Michael Clarke trusts Rohit Sharma will get back his top form soon. He wants Rohit to focus on playing without worrying too much.
A person who is 37 years old will guide the Indian team. India will play in the T20 World Cup. This big cricket event takes place in West Indies and U.S.A. The tournament starts on June 1.
“With someone like Rohit, it’s only a matter of time before he finds his form again. Hopefully, he stresses less and focusses on his game because he’s too talented to keep missing out. He’s at his best when he’s timing the ball, rather than trying to force it. He’s a great player, and I have no doubt he’ll bounce back soon.”
Michael Clarke
Hardik Pandya became the new captain of Mumbai Indians (MI) before the 2024 IPL season started. Rohit Sharma was replaced by him. So far, this decision has not worked well for MI. The team has won only 4 out of 12 matches. They are second from the bottom on the points table. This has been a very bad season for MI.
MI’s next match is against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The match will take place on Saturday, May 11 at Eden Gardens. This is MI’s second last league match of the season.