Mumbai Indians ended their losing streak by edging out Delhi Capitals by 12 runs on Sunday in the IPL 2025. But the triumph has ignited discussion — who, exactly, orchestrated the success from backstage?
Karn Sharma turned the match on its head by claiming three mitt overs. A few run-outs later got MI over the line. But rather than agreeing on captain Hardik Pandya or Karn and their contributions, the story turned towards Rohit Sharma — who wasn’t even on the field during Delhi’s chase.
So how did Rohit grab the headlines?
According to the broadcasters, Rohit, who was subbed out for Karn as the Impact Player, suggested the move to bring Karn on with the new ball. He reportedly discussed it with bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and passed it along via head coach Mahela Jayawardene to skipper Hardik. Social media lit up, calling it a “masterstroke” from Rohit.
STAR SPORTS POSTER FOR ROHIT SHARMA 🎯
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 13, 2025
– The Game Changing moment. pic.twitter.com/bwHv2jaqUn
But not everyone’s buying it.
Former India players Sanjay Bangar and Sanjay Manjrekar made it clear: the credit belongs to Karn for executing the plan, and Hardik for calling the shots.
Bangar said, “The credit went to Rohit Sharma, but it should’ve been Karn and Hardik. Karn delivered, and Hardik made the call.”
No rohit sharma and his PR harmed here😭😭😭
— Annie° Sharma (@Hydrogensharma) April 13, 2025
Unreal cooking man.pic.twitter.com/rv4Yhb9POd
Manjrekar didn’t hold back either. “It’s easy to give suggestions from the outside. But if it fails, you’d blame the captain. If you praise Rohit now and not Hardik, that’s just wrong. Hardik’s the one in charge. He made the decision—and it worked.”
Rohit may not have fired with the bat, but he was visibly involved in tactics throughout the game, often seen in deep discussion during timeouts. His strategic presence can’t be ignored—but giving him full credit for the win, especially from the bench, rubs some the wrong way.
Yes, Rohit’s cricketing brain is sharp. But this was Hardik’s win as captain. He’s been under pressure, and this was a much-needed result for him and the team.
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