Ravichandran Ashwin delivers a bold revelation on Rohit Sharma's future with Mumbai Indians

Published - 29 Aug 2024, 11:39 AM | Updated - 30 Aug 2024, 11:09 AM

Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma
Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma. Image Credit: Instagram/IPL

Ahead of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025), speculation is rife about Rohit Sharma's future with the Mumbai Indians (MI).

While rumors have swirled about Rohit leaving the five-time champions, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin stressed that the opener is unlikely to part ways with the Mumbai franchise that has defined his IPL career.

Despite Hardik Pandya taking over the Mumbai Indians (MI) captaincy last year—a move that sent shockwaves through the fanbase—Ashwin hinted that Rohit’s loyalty to the franchise remains unwavering amidst the reports of rifts between the team due to captaincy changes.

Ravichandran Ashwin suggests Rohit Sharma’s focus may shift to legacy over captaincy in the IPL 2025

MI’s decision to replace Rohit as captain was met with mixed reactions, with many fans, cricket experts, and former players expressing discontent and questioning the franchise’s strategy as Pandya failed to meet expectations and bring the team together in the IPL 2024.

The MI finished at the 10th spot in the rankings with only four wins this season under Pandya’s captaincy.

As the IPL 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on MI’s strategies and whether Rohit, one of the most successful captains in IPL history, will once again don the iconic blue jersey next year.

Ashwin opined that Rohit may prioritize his comfort and legacy over any leadership role after achieving remarkable success both with MI and the Indian cricket team.

Sharing his thoughts on the mindset of seasoned players like Rohit, Ashwin has emphasized the value of experience and contentment in their careers.

Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that Rohit, who has achieved significant milestones both as India and MI captain, would prioritize his well-being and satisfaction over leadership roles.

The Rajasthan Royals (RR) spinner said that Rohit would love to focus on enjoying the game without the pressures of captaincy in the upcoming IPL 2025.

Rohit would like I don't want any headaches: Ashwin

He also highlighted that money doesn't matter for players at this stage of their careers; they just want to contribute to a team they are deeply connected with, like Rohit's bond with the MI.

The contentment of playing for a team where they feel valued and where their legacy is respected could outweigh the desire for titles additional responsibilities or money, according to Ravichandran Ashwin.

Ravichandran Ashwin said on his YouTube channel: “Even if you think like Rohit, it's not wrong at all. I don't want any headaches. I have been a captain for India. I have captured Mumbai many times. Even if I am not a captain, I am going to Mumbai happily. If I play for Mumbai, it's super. I am sure most players are like that. After a stage, money doesn't matter for some of those players. That's the thing.”

Notably, Ashwin can likely return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the upcoming IPL 2025 after he returned to Indian Cements and got a big role at the CSK high-performance center.