India Today Sports Desk

New Delhi,UPDATED: Oct 31, 2024 17:57 IST

In Short

• Rohit Sharma's captaincy was taken away from MI
• Hardik Pandya captained MI in 2024
• There were reports that Rohit might leave MI after 2024

Veteran Mumbai Indians player Rohit Sharma is set to play his 15th season for his franchise after being retained for INR 16.30 Crore on Thursday, October 31. Notably, after the 2024 season, there were widespread rumours about Sharma leaving Mumbai after a fall out with the management. Sharma, who led Mumbai to all of their five IPL titles, was unceremoniously removed from his position as they acquired the services of all rounder Hardik Pandya.

Pandya was named MI’s skipper after leaving Gujarat Titans and joining his old team. Upon his return, the all-rounder reportedly put a demand to be the captain and the franchise obliged by giving him the position of Rohit. The move didn’t go down well with Mumbai fans who expressed their disapproval openly in the stadiums by booing Pandya throughout the season.

During the 2024 season, Sharma was also seen having a brief chat with the former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) assistant coach where he allegedly said that it was his last season with Mumbai. However, Mumbai has put all those rumours to rest by announcing Sharma as their retention.

The opening batter led India to their second T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year through his shrewd leadership and batting exploits. Hence, the 37-year-old has proven that he still has a lot left in the tank to give to his franchise will look to give his all in the upcoming season as Mumbai aim to win their sixth IPL trophy.

Apart from Rohit, Mumbai retained Jasprit Bumrah (INR 18 Crore), Suryakumar Yadav (INR 16.35 Crore), Hardik Pandya (INR 16.35 Crore) and Tilak Varma (INR 8 Crore). Hence, the five-time champions retained five players in total using INR 75 Crore from their total purse of INR 120 Crore. Hence, they will have INR 45 Crore to s build their remaining squad in the mega auction.

Published By:

Rishabh Beniwal

Published On:

Oct 31, 2024