Rohit Sharma is a 5-time IPL winner as a captain, removing him is a big decision: Yuvraj Singh

The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) is right around the corner, the marquee tournament is all set to begin on March 22, and one of the biggest favourites for the title would be the five-time champion Mumbai Indians. It is worth noting that Mumbai Indians will take centre stage at the IPL with all-rounder Hardik Pandya as their new skipper, replacing Rohit Sharma. Pandya’s appointment as the skipper brought forth many controversies, and former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh reflected on the same as well. 

The 'sixer king' opined that the 'hitman' should have been kept MI’s skipper for another year, and Pandya should have been appointed as his deputy. However, the former all-rounder understood that Mumbai was looking towards their future. 

“Rohit Sharma is a 5-time IPL winner as a captain. Removing him is a big decision. I would have gotten someone in, like they brought Hardik (Pandya), but I still would have given Rohit one more season and let Hardik be the vice-captain and see how the whole franchise works,” Yuvraj told Star Sports.

Also Read: Hardik Pandya joins Mumbai Indians camp

They have to see the future of the franchise: Yuvraj

Furthermore, Yuvraj Singh talked about Rohit Sharma’s track record as MI’s skipper and even acknowledged the side’s need to replace Rohit, who is slowly approaching the end stage of his career. Besides, the former world champion also heaped praise on all-rounder Hardik Pandya and his successful time with Gujarat Titans, whom he led to the title in 2022 and the summit clash in 2023. 

“I understand from the franchise’s point of view, they have to see the future of the franchise. But then again, Rohit is captaining India and still playing well, so it’s a big decision,” the 42-year-old added. 

“In terms of talent, yes, he has great talent. Being captain of Gujarat will be different from being captain of Mumbai. Expectations are a lot. Mumbai Indians have been a big side,” Yuvraj concluded.

Also Read: AB de Villiers addresses 'big controversy' in Mumbai Indians' camp featuring Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma