MI vs KKR: Rohit Sharma UNWELL? Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma has come in as an Impact Player after sitting out during Mumbai Indians’ bowling against Kolkata Knight Riders. The MI skipper did not come at the toss with Suryakumar Yadav leading the team in his absence. With BCCI informing franchises about managing workload, Rohit Sharma did not field. However, the official explanation was a stomach bug that mysteriously disappeared when Mumbai had to chase 186. Follow IPL 2023 LIVE Updates on InsideSport.IN.
Speaking at the toss, stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav said, “Rohit is out, he has a stomach bug.”
The MI skipper later came on in to open the innings for Mumbai Indians, replacing Riley Meredith. However, Suryakumar will continue as captain as per Impact Player rules.
While Suryakumar Yadav says it is a stomach bug, Rohit Sharma was seen on the field discussing tactics with the MI backroom staff. His inclusion in the substitutes further suggests there isn’t much to worry about as far as the Mumbai Indians skipper is concerned. His absence could simply be the case of workload management with the World Test Championship final on the horizon.
With India battling an injury crisis, the MI skipper has opted for a cautious approach to keep himself available at all times for the national team. The Hit-Man has struggled with injuries over the past few years, and resting himself between a packed schedule gives him the chance to be 100% fit. Rohit has travelled with the squad, and could even pass instructions to SKY from the bench.
Before the tournament, he had urged the players to manage their workload and hoped that there weren’t any more casualties.
“It’s all up to the franchises now. They own them now. We have given some indications to the teams, but at the end of the day, it’s up to the franchises. And more importantly, it’s up to the players. They are all adults; they have to look after their bodies. If they feel it’s getting a bit too much, they can talk about it and take a break in one or two games. I doubt if that will happen,” Rohit had said after the 3rd ODI in Chennai.
Incidentally, Rohit had also missed the IPL 2023 Opening Ceremony in Ahmedabad. The Mumbai Indians skipper was reportedly unwell then as well and decided it was best not to travel.
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