New Delhi, March 13: Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that Rohit Sharma should be on the field for the entire 40 overs in the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). He argues that the Mumbai Indians should not utilize Rohit as an ‘impact player’ in the upcoming season.
Chopra stated that having a fully fit player like Rohit only play as a batsman lacks significance, especially when he can contribute throughout the match.
In an interview with JioCinema, he emphasized, “If you are fit, you should play the entire match, not just be a substitute. Particularly when batting in the second innings, you should not come in as an ‘impact player.’ An opener is not accustomed to watching the match from the dugout for 20 overs.”
Aakash further explained that opening batsmen are used to being involved from the start of the game and prepare accordingly before stepping onto the field.
He added, “Openers have the habit of staying on the field, preparing in that manner, and then playing in full rhythm as soon as they enter the ground. Rohit Sharma is currently the fittest, most agile, and perhaps the strongest player, so he should remain on the field for all 40 overs. This way, the Mumbai Indians can fully utilize Rohit Sharma.”
Meanwhile, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh also believes that Rohit should not be limited to a substitute role, highlighting the importance of his experience on the field.
Bhajji remarked, “Rohit Sharma has been used as the 12th player who only bats, but I think a player of his caliber should be on the field. In tough matches, when crucial decisions need to be made, Rohit Sharma can be a pillar of support for Hardik Pandya.”
The five-time IPL trophy-winning captain Rohit was often used as an ‘impact player’ by the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, a decision that faced significant criticism from fans. In IPL 2025, Rohit struggled with the bat, scoring only 240 runs.
–
SM/ABM
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
Leave a Comment