New Delhi: Mohit Sharma, then playing for Gujarat Titans, recorded the worst bowling figures in IPL history in the 2024 match against Delhi Capitals. He was carted for 73 runs in his four overs, including 30 runs off his last over.

As luck would have it, the 36-year-old was picked up by Delhi Capitals for ₹2.20 crore at the IPL mega auction for 2025. You might attribute the buy to the vagaries of the auction, but it also goes to show that even the best players will have bad days in the T20 format. However, what truly matters is how they respond to that.

And that is something Mohit is a professional at. He’s seen it all — from playing Ranji Trophy to finding favour with MS Dhoni at CSK and finally finding a place in the Indian team. It was a heady ride but then came the downturn. Loss of form saw him slide out of India, and from 2019 to 2021 he played just two IPL games. In 2022, he even travelled as a net bowler for Gujarat Titans.

“I believe in destiny. If something good happens, I move forward. If something bad happens, I go back to the nets,” he said in a calm manner of veterans.

The key, Mohit believes, is how you bounce back. And not everyone knows how to do it right. That is where experience matters.

“Experience matters a lot in T20s, not just in terms of performance but in learning. Having someone like Mitchell Starc in the mix brings great value to the team. We have all taken hits in this format, we’ve all had bad days but it’s about bouncing back. And that is something that I or Starc can talk to youngsters about. It’s about sharing and it is also about executing.”

He added: “In T20s, you will get hit. If you are afraid of getting hit for sixes, you won’t take wickets. But it all boils down to execution. A perfect yorker is still hard to hit 99% of the time but if you get it wrong, you will get hit. A wide yorker can still work. Even a length ball. But you have to get it right, you have to time it right and you need courage to do that.”

Delhi Capitals are optimistic that their blend of understanding and composure will benefit them this season. Currently, Mohit is uncertain about his specific role, yet he is determined to prepare thoroughly.

"I am focusing on my overall preparation. I am taking care of my physical condition, practicing with both the new and old balls, and ensuring I am ready for any situation that Hemang bhai or Venu bhai may require me for," he stated. Hemang Badani serves as the chief coach, while Venugopal Rao is the director of cricket.

The IPL 2024 season proved challenging for bowlers, as the Impact Player rule provided batting line-ups with additional support. This flexibility resulted in higher scores and placed bowlers under relentless pressure. Will this necessitate a shift in strategy for bowlers this season?

"There is no need to change anything," Mohit replied. "I firmly believe that attempting to alter your approach may cause you to lose what you already possess. Last year, the impact player altered the dynamics, and it was unclear how the rule would be applied initially. It was only in the latter part of the season that the impact player truly made a significant difference. Therefore, the emphasis should remain on executing our plans. If we do that, we may face the occasional setback, but overall, we will be fine."

Delhi boasts an intriguing squad—while some veteran players have departed, their positions have been filled by individuals eager to make their mark.

"We have a strong squad, but the first 7-10 days are crucial," Mohit noted. "Starting the season well is vital, as it instills confidence within the team. However, for that to occur, we must execute our plans effectively. Ultimately, execution is what matters most."

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