Rohit Sharma’s success as an IPL skipper is second to none. After taking charge of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2013, Rohit has led the franchise to five titles so far.
Former India pacer Zaheer Khan is someone who has watched Rohit’s progress from close quarters over the years.
According to Zaheer, the director of cricket operations at Mumbai Indians, Rohit is a player’s captain and he dedicates time to each player in the team.
“Rohit is a player’s captain. He’s been phenomenal for Mumbai Indians over the years as a player and a leader. The fact that he dedicates personal time to each individual and is very approachable, makes him a role model and a standout leader,” Zaheer told Sportstar.
“We have always been a team which promotes and gives freedom to youngsters. With Rohit’s experience and attitude, I believe we will have a lot of individuals who would be groomed as leaders in their own respective ways…” he added.
Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega-auction, MI had retained Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, and Suryakumar Yadav while they bought back Ishan Kishan last month to keep their core intact. The franchise made some other notable buys in Jofra Archer, Jaydev Unadkat, Tim David, and U-19 sensation Dewald Brevis.
“We are very happy with the team. As always, we have created a strong and competitive squad. A big auction also gives you the chance to plan ahead and work on balancing short and long-term goals as a team. We have managed to retain the core of the squad. And with the exciting buys, created a fine mix between experience and youth,” Zaheer said.
“We have a tradition of encouraging and promoting fresh talent. This year too, we have invested in a few youngsters. They were identified by our scouts who rate them very highly. We welcome them and hope to see them excel on the field….”
The 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League is all set to get underway on March 26 with the clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
A total of 70 league matches will be played across four international standard venues in Mumbai and Pune. The venue for the playoff matches will be decided later.
“Yes, Mumbai has been our home but it’s not that we’re playing all our matches at Wankhede. If you see, all teams are playing relatively the same amount of matches at all venues. So, I don’t think there would be any advantage or disadvantage for any team,” Zaheer said, “I believe all teams start with a clean slate…”
Mumbai Indians will open their campaign against Delhi Capitals on March 27 at Brabourne Stadium.
(With Sportstar inputs)
