Despite facing criticism regarding his performance and speculation about his future in the IPL, Rohit Sharma demonstrated once again on Sunday why he is an essential part of the Mumbai Indians' team. Although he has stepped down from his leadership position ahead of the 2024 IPL season, with Hardik Pandya taking over, Rohit was actively involved in guiding the team from the sidelines during the match against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. His strategic input contributed significantly to a narrow 12-run victory.

Karun Nair had set the stage for Delhi's fifth consecutive win this season with a rapid 22-ball fifty, marking his return to the league after a three-year absence. However, a tactical decision from Rohit led to a batting collapse for Delhi, preventing them from successfully chasing the target in their first home game.

In the latter part of the 13th over of Delhi's innings, Rohit engaged in an animated conversation with head coach Mahela Jayawardena and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey. Following this discussion, he signaled to Hardik to not only take the second new ball but also to introduce leg spin into the bowling attack. Karn Sharma was brought in and quickly made an impact by dismissing Tristan Stubbs on the third ball of his over, before returning shortly after to remove the in-form KL Rahul.

Delhi, who had been comfortably scoring at over 11 runs per over until the 13th over, suddenly found themselves in a precarious position as the required run rate increased. Ultimately, they were bowled out for 193 runs.

Manjrekar credits Hardik, not Rohit for the win

In the aftermath of the win, social media erupted with praise for Rohit, attributing the success to his strategic insight, a sentiment echoed by former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar during a discussion with Star Sports.

"Rohit deserves recognition for that wicket. He should receive commendation for it. The execution by Karn Sharma was impressive...," Bangar stated, but was soon interrupted by Sanjay Manjrekar, who argued that it was inappropriate to credit the 37-year-old for the advice. Instead, he emphasized that it was captain Hardik, who ultimately makes decisions on the field, that should be acknowledged for the victory.

"There are many individuals who deserve recognition. However, the one who made the final decision was the one who heeded the advice, which is crucial. If we continue to credit Rohit instead of Hardik, it would be misguided. Suggestions can come from anyone, but if the advice had failed, Hardik would have faced the blame. It is easy to offer suggestions from the sidelines. The full credit should go to Hardik, especially considering how he was positioned in the dugout; this win was significant for him. Hardik has faced a challenging journey. Therefore, it would be incorrect for social media to attribute Mumbai's victory to Rohit. Hardik is the captain, and he is the one who makes the final decision, irrespective of who provides the suggestion," he remarked.

This marked only Mumbai's second victory in six matches since the season commenced. They are set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad at home on Thursday.

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