Hardik Pandya Clears The Air On Rohit's Absence In MI vs LSG Clash

Captain Hardik Pandya addressed the issue at the toss, revealing the reason behind Rohit's absence.

Rohit Sharma has had a disappointing run so far in IPL 2025 season.

Source : PTI

Mumbai Indians' campaign in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been far from ideal. After suffering two consecutive defeats, the team finally tasted victory against Kolkata Knight Riders.

However, concerns around Rohit Sharma't form have continued to grow. The star batter hasn't contributed with the bat and is notably absent from the playing XI for their match against Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium. Captain Hardik Pandya addressed the issue at the toss, revealing the reason behind Rohit's absence.

Hardik Pandya breaks silence on Rohit's exclusion

During the toss, Hardik Pandya confirmed that Rohit would not be part of the starting XI against LSG. "Rohit was hit on the knee. He is missing out,” said Hardik Pandya during the toss.

While he didn't provide extensive details, it is possible that the decision was made to give Rohit a break - possibly to manage workload and allow him to regroup mentally and physically amid a rough patch with the bat.

Rohit Sharma's struggles continue

Rohit has had a disappointing run this season. In the opening match against Chennai Super Kings, he was dismissed for a duck after facing just four deliveries. In the second game against Gujarat Titans, he managed only 8 runs off 4 balls. Although MI secured a win in their third match, Rohit again failed to make an impact, scoring 13 runs off 12 balls with a single six.

Rohit's legacy with MI

Despite his current struggles, Rohit Sharma remains a legend in Mumbai Indians' history. Between 2013 and 2023, he led the team to five IPL titles - making MI the joint-most successful franchise in the tournament.

Ahead of the 2024 season, the captaincy baton was passed to Hardik Pandya, a move that sparked speculation about Rohit's future with the team. However, Mumbai retained the 'Hitman' for Rs 16.3 crore.

So far in IPL 2025, Rohit has featured in the first two matches as a starter and appeared as an Impact Player in the third. While the team might be using this break to reassess roles, fans will be hoping to see Rohit bounce back stronger as IPL 2025 season progresses.