Rohit Sharma silences critics of Mumbai Indians through heartfelt tribute for Hardik Pandya

It was just a few months ago that Indian all rounder Hardik Pandya was booed at the Wankhede Stadium after he had taken over the captaincy for Mumbai Indians from Indian batsman Rohit Sharma. There was criticism directed at Rohit Sharma as well from a section of the audience. 

The critics claimed that Rohit Sharma should have taken the lead in controlling the crowd. Indian batsman had acted along similar lines in the 2019 ICC CWC when Australian batsman Steven Smith faced hostility from spectators in England. Rohit Sharma however gave due credit to Hardik Pandya for the way he handled pressure when South Africa needed 16 to win off 6 balls in the final of the ICC 2024 T-20 World Cup. “Hardik was bowling the final over for us. Hats off to him for bowling that last over. You know, no matter how many runs you need, there is always so much pressure to bowl that over. But hats off to him,” Rohit said while addressing the crowd at the Wankhede Stadium after Team India’s victory procession in Mumbai. 

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Rohit also thanked the Mumbai crowd for the manner in which they celebrated India’s victory. “Mumbai never disappoints. We got a solid reception. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank the fans. I am very, very happy and relieved. This trophy is for the entire nation. Along with all the players who have represented the country, we want to dedicate it to our fans, who have waited for 11 years,” Rohit added.