NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya expressed his assurance that his predecessor, Rohit Sharma, would remain a pivotal guiding figure for him throughout the IPL, despite the unforeseen shift in leadership announced by the franchise before the upcoming season.
Pandya, who previously captained the Gujarat Titans over the past two seasons, returns to Mumbai Indians as captain for the 2024 edition. Rohit, who led Mumbai Indians to five titles, was unexpectedly replaced by Pandya ahead of the 2024 season.
"It will not be any different, he will always be there to help me. This team, what it has achieved, it has achieved under him and I just have to carry forward that. He is going to have his hand on my shoulders," said Pandya in a media interaction in Mumbai.
"We respect fans but we focus on the sport and what is required. I focus on the controllables, fans have every right and I respect their opinion," he replied when asked about the fans' outrage at Rohit's removal.
The eminent all-rounder is poised to make his return to elite-level cricket through the IPL after undergoing an extensive rehabilitation period for the ankle injury he sustained during the ODI World Cup held at home in October.
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"I have no issues with my body, I plan to play all the games. In IPL, I have not missed many games anyway. Technically, I was out for three months. It was a freak injury and it had nothing to do with my earlier injuries. I tried to stop the ball and ended up getting injured," said Pandya.
The talented leader swiftly achieved success while captaining the Gujarat Titans. With his return to the prestigious Mumbai franchise, there will be heightened anticipation for him to contribute to adding yet another accolade to their already illustrious trophy cabinet.
"Expectations will always be there in Mumbai Indians. We must focus on the process. I cannot win tomorrow, we will have to wait for two months and see how we prepare, how we get together. We will play a brand which everyone will enjoy," he said.
Head coach Mark Boucher, who was sitting alongside Pandya in the media interaction, was also asked about Rohit and his role going forward.
"Rohit has been in fantastic form. Looking forward to Ro going out and expressing himself. We watched him bat against England. He has been batting fantastic," said Boucher.
(With PTI inputs)
