'Coaches must keep their egos aside' - Harbhajan Singh's advice to MI coach Jayawardene for disagreeing with Rohit Sharma's 'masterstroke'
"I think [Jayawardene] did not agree with Rohit Sharma. If they had gone with what Jayawardene had to say, Mumbai Indians would have also lost this game," said Harbhajan after MI's victory over DC.
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Mumbai Indians (MI) secured a thrilling 12-run victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) in Delhi on April 13. Former MI spinner Harbhajan Singh criticised head coach Mahela Jayawardene for reportedly disagreeing with opener Rohit Sharma’s tactical suggestion, a decision that paid off for MI victory.
The right-arm spinner acknowledged that it was a strategic move by the former MI captain that shifted the momentum in his team's favour. Harbhajan highlighted that it was Rohit who suggested bringing in spinners, particularly Karn Sharma, even though the head coach may not have fully agreed. He credited Rohit's captaincy instincts as decisive, praising his tactical brilliance.
"A crucial ploy by Rohit Sharma turned a loss into a win. DC was running away with the game. Karun Nair was batting brilliantly. Nobody was able to stop him. He was playing like Pushpa, spreading like wildfire. In the 13th over, it seemed like DC would win. But just then Rohit asked the head coach, Mahela Jayawardene, to employ spinners and bring Karn Sharma into the attack," said Harbhajan on his YouTube channel.
"I think Mahela Jayawardene did not agree with Rohit Sharma. If they had gone with what Jayawardene had to say, the Mumbai Indians would have also lost this game. Rohit Sharma was there, he had the best move. He is the captain. He always thinks like a captain. A captain is always the captain, and his tactical acumen helped Mumbai win," he added.
I hope for continued involvement from Rohit: Harbhajan Singh
The 44-year-old stated that leg spinner’s three-wicket spell changed the game on its head. The Jalandhar born player contrasted it with past decisions made by the former Sri Lanka player, and hoped Rohit continues offering insights from the dugout.
"Karn Sharma came into the attack and took three wickets, turning the game's tide. It was a gold move. This wouldn't have happened when Tilak Varma retired against Lucknow and Mitchell Santner was sent in if Rohit Sharma had been in the dugout. Mahela Jayawardene made a bad move. Rohit was incredible against Delhi Capitals. Sometimes, the coaches must keep their egos aside and consider how the team can benefit. I hope Rohit Sharma keeps sharing his inputs from the dugout," he added.
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