Rohit Sharma, whose name and game need no introduction, was removed from the Mumbai Indians’ captaincy despite winning five IPL trophies. This significant change occurred in IPL 2024, and under the new captain, Hardik Pandya, the team struggled to perform. Consequently, we witnessed unrest within the squad, and their fan base was reduced as the Mumbai Indians lost 400,000 followers on Twitter within an hour of the news of Rohit Sharma’s removal as captain for the 2024 season.
Rohit, whose strategies led the Indian team to victory in the T20 World Cup, hinted that IPL 2024 might be his last with the franchise. If this is true, which teams might target this stylish opener? Here is a look at three franchises that might be eager to acquire Rohit Sharma for IPL 2025.
Lucknow Super Giants
LSG, which had an amazing inaugural season in 2022 and also finished third in 2023. But did not have a successful 2024 under the captaincy of KL Rahul. They finished 7th with 7 wins and 7 losses. There are reports suggesting that KL Rahul is eager to join a new franchise, and he might join RCB, which is taking the internet by storm. If we believe this, LSG would not only lose their captain but also their opener.
This gap could be filled by Rohit Sharma, whose captaincy skills and batting prowess could be a game changer for the LSG camp. With five trophies in his record, there is no doubt within the franchise that he is the player to watch out for in the IPL 2025 mega auction, if he decides to leave MI and join them.
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Delhi Capitals
The Delhi Capitals are another team currently experiencing unrest. As reports suggest the franchise may release their current skipper, Rishabh Pant. He is rumored to be linked with CSK, as MS Dhoni might retire in IPL 2025, although there is no confirmation yet. According to these reports, CSK is looking for both a wicketkeeper and a skipper.
For now, Ruturaj Gaikwad is leading the camp, but if the Delhi southpaw leaves and joins CSK. Also he might get the captaincy as well. If Pant makes it clear that he is leaving DC, then the Capitals will be the most likely destination for Rohit’s next IPL team.
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings, who have been in the IPL since its inception but have yet to win a trophy. Also have faced several issues contributing to their lack of success. One major reason is the lack of well-established captains.
In the past, we’ve seen considerable captaincy unrest, leading to inconsistent seasons. The captaincy stints of Shikhar Dhawan and Sam Curran in IPL 2024 also didn’t meet the franchise’s expectations. Punjab Kings finished sixth with 7 wins and 7 losses.
As a result, they are likely to release both Shikhar Dhawan and Sam Curran. If they do, it would be wise to acquire Rohit Sharma. However, without any confirmation, they need to consider the salary cap, as do all the franchises mentioned above.
It will be interesting to see where the skipper with 5 IPL trophies and over 6,000 runs,will go in the next season.
