"You've been one of the pillars" - Hardik Pandya congratulates Rohit Sharma on playing 200th game for MI

The game between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians on Wednesday (March 27) in the ongoing IPL 2024 marked a special milestone for Rohit Sharma.

The match was his 200th IPL game for Mumbai Indians as he became the first-ever player to achieve the feat for the franchise. Overall, he became just the third player to play 200 IPL games for a single franchise. The other two players are Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni.

Rohit Sharma began his career in the IPL with the now-defunct Deccan Chargers in 2008. He played three seasons for the Deccan Chargers before being signed up by Mumbai Indians in 2011. Since then, he has been playing for the Mumbai-based outfit. Rohit Sharma also led the franchise from 2013 to 2023. Under his captaincy, Mumbai won their first title in 2013 before going on to win four more titles.

Hardik Pandya and others congratulate Rohit Sharma:

Before Rohit Sharma’s 200th IPL game for Mumbai Indians, the franchise posted a special video tribute for their former captain. The video features current captain Hardik Pandya as well as former players such as the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Kieron Pollard.

Congratulating Rohit Sharma on his achievement, Tendulkar recalled how he had suggested MI’s owner, Nita Ambani, to sign the batter.

“Long time ago, I was having discussion with Mrs Ambani that we have to bring Rohit to Mumbai Indians. From there on, what you’ve been able to achieve for Mumbai Indians is simply remarkable,” said Tendulkar.

On the other hand, Pandya hailed his predecessor as “one of the pillars” of the franchise, saying: “You’ve been one of the pillars of the franchise who has achieved so much under your belt. Ro, you’ve known for your double centuries, I’m sure this will also be special.”

Pollard also came up with some special words for his former IPL teammate, saying: “You continue to show the world your greatness.”

Watch:

With love, admiration and honour for our Hitman 💙#MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians #SRHvMI | @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/kTAJcKHVTI

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 27, 2024