Rohit Sharma’s Future with Mumbai Indians Uncertain Ahead of IPL 2025 Auction

Mumbai, 12th September 2024: The future of India captain Rohit Sharma with the Mumbai Indians has become a focal point as the cricket world prepares for the IPL 2025 mega auction. While the IPL council has yet to confirm the rules and date for the auction, rumours suggest that Mumbai might release Rohit, or he could choose to make himself available for the auction. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the speculation, particularly regarding Rohit’s potential link with the Lucknow Super Giants.

Tension reportedly arose between Rohit and the Mumbai franchise after his unexpected removal from captaincy last December, with Hardik Pandya stepping in as the new leader. Although Rohit has not publicly commented on this decision, rumours circulated about unease within the Mumbai Indians camp, suggesting a possible rift between Rohit and Pandya.

In response to a fan question on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra speculated that Rohit’s journey with the Mumbai Indians, a team he led for a decade and guided to five IPL titles, might be coming to an end. Chopra suggested the franchise could either release him or trade him before the auction.

“Will Rohit stay or go? It’s a tough call. I believe he won’t stay. Whoever is retained should be seen as a long-term investment, at least for three years—unless you’re MS Dhoni, whose story with Chennai Super Kings is unique. But with Rohit at Mumbai, I think either he will leave on his own or the franchise will make the decision,” Chopra shared.

He further speculated, “I don’t think Rohit will be retained. This is just my opinion, but he could be released or possibly traded. If that doesn’t happen, he might enter the auction. His time with Mumbai Indians seems over to me.”

There is also speculation that Rohit might join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), with reports suggesting the franchise is interested in trading for the T20 World Cup-winning captain. LSG owner Sanjeev Goenka has expressed interest in Rohit, though he denied rumours that the team has set aside INR 50 crores for him.

Goenka said: “Tell me, does anyone even know if Rohit Sharma will be available in the auction? The rumours are groundless. We need to wait and see if MI releases him and if Rohit chooses to enter the auction. Even if he does, how can you manage the rest of the squad with half your budget spent on one player?”

When asked about LSG’s plans regarding Rohit, Goenka added: “Everyone would love to have the best captain and player, but it’s not just about what we want. It’s about working with what’s available. Every team wants the best, but you can’t always get everything.”