(Cricket news) Ahead of the TATA IPL 2024 which begins on March 22, Live and Exclusive on JioCinema, JioCinema experts Anil Kumble, Zaheer Khan, Robin Uthappa and England’s Eoin Morgan discussed the legacy of Rohit Sharma as Mumbai Indians captain in an episode of Legends Lounge titled ‘Captain Rohit’s Legacy’. Excerpts:
Anil Kumble, JioCinema IPL expert, on how captaincy came to Rohit Sharma: When I went as mentor to Mumbai Indians in 2013, the team had everything in them for those six years, and not won a trophy. When John Wright, I and the ownership sat down, we thought this team needed someone who’s been there, done that. That’s why Ricky Ponting was chosen as a leader for the first few games. Unfortunately, his batting form was affected, and Mumbai too were not winning initially. We were in Kolkata and had to make that call. John Wright and me spoke to Rohit and asked him if he would like to lead the side. He said, yes, absolutely. He didn’t show any kind of nervousness or have a second thought.
Robin Uthappa, JioCinema IPL expert, on factors that helped Rohit get the captain’s role: We must also remember that he had been a part of Deccan Chargers that had won the IPL in 2009. He had a feeling of what it takes to win. He was an integral part of that side as well. One thing about Rohit is that he’s a very self-assured person. Nonchalance is a way of life for him. As a leader, he picked up a lot of nuances from MS (Dhoni). But he’s added his own touch to it and made it his own. He’s not scared to show his emotions on the field. It’s very unique to Rohit. It’s only something that he does.
Zaheer Khan, JioCinema IPL expert, on whether Rohit’s individual qualities trickle down to the team: Rohit is very intense, yet very casual. Being casual makes him approachable. But he’s very intense when he’s going about his business and preparing. That’s something that works in his favour brilliantly. He has a very good tactical understanding of the game.
Eoin Morgan, JioCinema IPL expert, on the skills that separated Rohit from other leaders: His passion is very authentic. He has his own ways about manipulating the pace of the game. He has made analysis a cornerstone for the team he’s leading. He has always found the right balance in the team whether he’s in or out of form.
