Before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 retention, the Mumbai Indians (MI) management faced considerable backlash for their decision to replace Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the captain of the team. Following this move, social media platforms further buzzed with rumors about the franchise planning to trade Rohit. However, then Mumbai management officials promptly denied these claims, dismissing them as entirely unfounded.
Mumbai Indians’ consideration of Rohit Sharma trade deal
Now amidst the ongoing 17th edition of the IPL, a viral video surfaced on social media, reigniting discussions about Mumbai’s alleged intentions to trade Rohit to another team. According to a recent video posted by the platform X, affiliated with Sports Tak, it was revealed that MI had considered releasing their five-time winning captain in exchange for prominent players from Delhi Capitals (DC), with some suggesting the involvement of veteran opener David Warner.
Also READ: IPL 2024: Navjot Singh Sidhu shares the potential impact of Rohit Sharma’s captaincy shift on his playing style
The reason behind the non-materialization of trade with Delhi Capitals
Interestingly, the video claimed that the failed trade deal wasn’t due to contractual disputes or player evaluations. Instead, it was attributed to the overwhelming support Rohit had garnered during the ODI World Cup 2023. Rohit’s exceptional leadership led India to an unprecedented streak of 10 consecutive wins during the World Cup, capturing the nation’s admiration with his remarkable team performance. Faced with such widespread fan support, Mumbai hesitated to part ways with their star player.
MI want to trade Warner with Rohit Sharma.
RT max, let it reach to masses.
ULTIMATE GOAT ROHIT SHARMA pic.twitter.com/dPamixKNB2— Aru ★ (@Aru_Ro45) March 30, 2024
Hardik Pandya faces criticism after two consecutive defeats
Nevertheless, the change in leadership to Hardik brought intense scrutiny, particularly after MI suffered unexpected defeats in their opening two matches under Pandya’s captaincy. Consequently, Hardik has faced significant criticism both on and off the field, with fans expressing their discontent on various social media platforms and even resorting to booing at stadiums. With two losses in their opening matches, Mumbai are now preparing to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Wankhede Stadium in their first home game of the season on Monday.
