Scoring 15-20 runs is not enough from Rohit Sharma: Ian Bishop

Former Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Rohit Sharma is enduring a rough patch in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), managing just 38 runs in four matches. After being rested for the game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the opener scored only 17 runs in the next clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

However, his comeback was less impactful. The right-handed batter was dismissed early by Yash Dayal, further adding to his stretch of low scores. His performance drew criticism from commentators Ian Bishop and Ravi Shastri during the broadcast. They expressed their disappointment, noting that the stalwart is expected to contribute more than just 12 to 15 runs at the top of the order.

Former West Indies cricketer emphasised that MI needs much more from the experienced opener, especially during a campaign like this and his presence should go beyond, delivering match-winning innings.

"They need more from Rohit Sharma, not just little starts of 12-15 runs at the start," said Ian Bishop on commentary.

Former India coach Shastri also emphasised that the opener needs to convert his starts into impactful innings. He stated that scoring just 15-20 runs is not enough at this level, and the opener must push on to make 40-60 runs to make a difference for the team.

"Ideally, you want consistency. Teams that go a long way usually have the top-order firing. You need a 400-run season from Rohit Sharma. 15s and 20s converted into 40s and 60s," said Shastri during the MI vs RCB clash.

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MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene also expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma’s abilities, refusing to give up on the veteran. He emphasised the importance of giving experienced players time to find their form. However, he admitted that the team has been struggling to score quick runs consistently during the powerplay.

"If you're telling me every two innings to look at someone's performance, it's a bit unfair. My memory of his last innings was the Champions Trophy-winning knock. So we have to give and back the experienced guys, and them coming to the party.

"We've always, as Mumbai, backed the core group to deliver for us, so we're going to do that. It was unfortunate that he got hit in the nets, and hopefully, he'll be 100%, and that's how we will continue to back the guys to get the results for us," said the Sri Lankan in the pre-match press conference.