For the first time, Rohit Sharma will be playing under Hardik Pandya’s captaincy when Mumbai Indians kick off their IPL 2024 season against Gujarat Titans. This marks a change in leadership for MI, with Hardik taking over from Rohit, who led the team previously. Hardik returns to MI after leading the Gujarat Titans for two successful seasons.
Hardik Pandya Breaks Silence On Rapport With Rohit Sharma
Throughout the speculation about how the dynamic between Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya would unfold, neither player addressed the transition until now. During Mumbai Indians’ pre-season IPL press conference on Monday, Hardik finally broached the topic and shared an interesting insight.
The newly-appointed MI captain disclosed that although he hasn’t spoken to Rohit about the captaincy change yet, he is confident that there won’t be any ‘awkwardness’ between them.
When asked if things might be a bit awkward between them, Hardik dismissed the idea. He said: “First of all, it won’t be any different. I have played most of my career under his leadership. Whatever he has achieved for this franchise, I will try and take it forward. I know nothing will be awkward as I will always have his hand on my shoulder,”
On December 15, 2023, MI made the significant announcement of appointing Hardik as their new captain, thereby concluding Rohit’s impressive 11-season stint as captain. Since taking over from Ricky Ponting midway through the 2013 season, Rohit has carved out a remarkable legacy in the IPL, leading MI to five championship victories and establishing himself as the most successful IPL captain ever.
Under his leadership, MI experienced unprecedented success, clinching the title every alternate year and nurturing talents like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, who have since become stalwarts of Indian cricket.
Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma haven’t had a chance to discuss the captaincy change at Mumbai Indians due to Rohit’s busy schedule with the Indian team. Hardik revealed:
“Yes… and no. Because he has been travelling; he has been playing. We’re all professionals and by the time the team comes together, we will be playing. It’s been a couple of months since we haven’t seen each other, and as mentioned, whenever he is here. Once he comes, we will definitely have a chat,”
Question – have you had a word with Rohit Sharma since becoming MI captain?
Hardik Pandya – Yes and a No as well. He has been travelling non-stop. pic.twitter.com/8tyu4QQcUW
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 18, 2024
