Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has hinted that Mumbai Indians (MI) might release both Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2025 season due to their underwhelming performances in IPL 2024. Sehwag’s comments come as MI finds itself struggling at the bottom of the points table this season.
Underperformance of Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya, who took on the role of MI’s captain this season, has failed to deliver consistently, managing just 200 runs and 11 wickets throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma began the season with promise, scoring a century early on, but his form has since dipped, raising concerns about his performance ahead of the T20 World Cup. Sehwag highlighted the need for all players, including big names like Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, to step up and perform on the field.
Sehwag drew an analogy, comparing the presence of Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya in MI to having Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan in one film. He emphasized that individual performances are crucial for success, regardless of star power.
Certainties for MI: Bumrah and Suryakumar
According to Sehwag, the only two players MI can rely on for the next season are Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah. Both players have demonstrated consistency and reliability, making them valuable assets for the franchise. Sehwag believes that these two players should be the top priorities for retention in the upcoming IPL auctions.
Echoes from Tiwary
Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary echoed Sehwag’s sentiments, advocating for Bumrah or Suryakumar Yadav to be considered as the next captain of MI. Tiwary emphasized the need for strategic decision-making by the MI management, suggesting that investing in these two players would be a wise move given their performance and leadership potential.
Tiwary expressed skepticism about Rohit Sharma’s future with the franchise, suggesting that Rohit may not return for another season based on his current disposition.
As the IPL 2024 season draws to a close, MI faces crucial decisions regarding player retention and team composition for IPL 2025. With Sehwag and Tiwary advocating for a strategic approach focusing on consistency and performance, MI will need to carefully evaluate its options to remain competitive in the upcoming seasons.
