New Delhi, April 11 – Suryakumar Yadav, captain of India’s T20I team and a leading batsman, offered thoughtful words to Rohit Sharma, the former captain of Mumbai Indians, who completed 15 years with the franchise. Yadav congratulated Sharma on his achievement while also expressing his wish for a long association with the team.
“This is a fantastic achievement – 15 years playing for one franchise. I also remember that before entering this dressing room, I made my debut in first-class cricket when you were around, in 2010-11. And then I came here in 2011, although the first three years with Mumbai Indians were very exciting. I didn't get much time to spend with you, both on and off the field.
“But then, when I came back in 2018, it has been a wonderful journey so far. And as Polly says, may this continue for as long as you want. We are very excited. I think 15 years is an incredible achievement. Congratulations,” said Surya in a video shared by the franchise on social media platforms.
Rohit began his Indian Premier League (IPL) career with Deccan Chargers in 2008, but moved to MI in 2011, a move strongly endorsed by then-captain Sachin Tendulkar. He made his MI debut on April 10, 2011, against Delhi Daredevils (now known as Delhi Capitals) at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, scoring an unbeaten 27, and sharing a match-winning partnership with Tendulkar in a dominant eight-wicket victory.
After taking over the leadership from Ricky Ponting, Rohit led the franchise to five IPL titles, with the first one coming in the veteran's maiden captaincy outing in 2013. Thereafter, MI clinched four more titles in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.
Rohit’s teammates at MI this season, Shardul Thakur and Hardik Pandya, and the team’s former all-rounder and current batting coach Kieron Pollard, also congratulated the 38-year-old, highlighting his contributions as both a captain and a mentor to younger players.