Only a few weeks until the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season begins, but the Mumbai Indians’ decision to replace captain Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya is still arguably the most talked-about topic. MI fans remain disappointed with Rohit’s demotion.
Former Mumbai Indian star Ambati Rayudu believes the captaincy change was made in haste. Rayudu, who has also played for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, wants Rohit to follow in his footsteps and join the MS Dhoni-led team.
Rayudu had no qualms about keeping Rohit as captain of the Mumbai franchise for another season, especially since he is currently leading the Indian team.
“The Mumbai Indians’ decision to replace Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as captain was hasty. The franchise should have stuck with Rohit for this season, as he is still the captain of the Indian team.
Hardik could have played for MI under Rohit’s captaincy for a season before taking on the leadership role the following year,” Rayudu told News 24.
The former MI and CSK batsman believes Hardik will struggle to lead the Mumbai side because their setup differs from that of the Gujarat Titans.
“Coming from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians as a captain could be difficult for Hardik as the setup is different,” he told reporters.
In terms of Rohit’s future, Rayudu hopes to see the opening batter join Chennai Super Kings. Rayudu would like to see Rohit lead the Yellow Brigade if the circumstances permit and he expresses an interest.
“I’d like to see Rohit at the Chennai Super Kings. “If MS Dhoni doesn’t continue (after this season), Rohit could lead the franchise,” he said.
On March 24, the Mumbai Indians play their first game of the season against Hardik’s previous franchise, the Gujarat Titans.
