Without any captaincy burden, Rohit Sharma may take the Orange Cap: S Sreesanth

Former India pacer S Sreesanth believes Rohit Sharma could fight for the coveted Orange Cap in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), citing he doesn't have any captaincy burden. Rohit, who led Mumbai Indians (MI) to record-equalling five titles was replaced by Hardik Pandya ahead of the tournament after the latter was traded from Gujarat Titans (GT).

Since being named as MI captain, Hardik has been facing severe backlash from fans. However, Sreesanth feels Rohit would love to play freely under the leadership of Hardik while mentioning that the legendary Sachin Tendulkar has played under MS Dhoni. 

"We have seen the god of cricket, the great Sachin Tendulkar play under Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni). We won the World Cup too. A lot of stories are being told about Rohit Sharma playing under new captain Hardik Pandya but Rohit would love to play freely," Sreesanth told The Times of India.

He further backed Rohit to emerge as the highest run-scorer in the tournament as he believes the India captain can bat freely as he just has to focus on his game. 

Also read: Mumbai Indians had lost five successive matches under Rohit Sharma's captaincy too: Virender Sehwag

"As far as I know Rohit, he would look to bat freely, without any captaincy burden, and may take the Orange Cap too. He is going to have a great season. He has led Mumbai Indians from the front but I am sure Rohit is going to lead Mumbai Indians from the back," the 41-year-old added.

For whatever franchise he will play, Rohit is going to be the same: Sreesanth

S Sreesanth further spoke about Rohit Sharma's future, stating he will remain the same and it doesn't matter where he plays. The Kerala-born cricketer went on to say that he has confidence in Hitman's expertise and will score a lot of runs this season. Notably, the 36-year-old made an unwanted record during this IPL scoring the joint-most number of ducks (17) in the T20 competition. 

Also read: IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma, other MI stars spotted in Jamnagar for short break ahead of DC clash

"I would say let's be ready for the change and accept the change. For whatever franchise he will play, Rohit is going to be the same. I am sure he must be going through difficult times personally but I am very confident that he will take it in his stride and will come out as a champ. Rohit is going to score heavily this season," he concluded.