Rohit Sharma is back in action! The captain who led India to victory in the T20 World Cup and ICC Champions Trophy joined the Mumbai Indians camp on Wednesday, March 19, just a few days ahead of IPL 2025, which kicks off on March 22. After securing India's third Champions Trophy title in Dubai, Rohit took a short trip to the Maldives to relax with his family before heading back to India to reunite with the MI team. He received a warm welcome, with MI's official website celebrating his return by calling him "Mumbaicha Raja, Rohit Sharma (The King of Mumbai)."

"The man, the myth, the HITMAN – With his effortless style and big-match mentality, Rohit is ready to work his magic again in the iconic Blue & Gold as we embark on our mission for title number six," MI stated.

Rohit is one of only two captains in IPL history, alongside MS Dhoni, to have clinched five titles. He also ranks as the third-highest run-scorer in IPL history, amassing 6,628 runs over 257 matches. Despite his impressive track record, MI made the tough choice to relieve Rohit of captaincy after three challenging seasons from 2021 to 2023, appointing Hardik Pandya as the new captain. Nevertheless, Rohit remains the franchise's biggest draw.

MI emphasized that Rohit's presence adds an extra boost to the younger players in the team. "The squad is coming together well, the training sessions are getting more intense every day, and with Rohit around, there's always that extra edge."

Leaders from MI

Suryakumar Yadav will take the reins for the Mumbai Indians in their IPL 2025 season opener against the Chennai Super Kings on March 23, as regular captain Hardik Pandya is sidelined due to a one-match suspension for a slow over-rate in their final game of 2024.

Pandya, who made his return to the Mumbai Indians last year after two successful seasons with the Gujarat Titans, expressed his appreciation for the experienced players around him.

"I feel fortunate to have three captains alongside me. Their experience is invaluable. Each of them has led India in various formats and brings years of knowledge to the table. They’re always there to support me," Pandya shared during a press conference.

This season, Rohit Sharma will have a new opening partner in Ryan Rickelton, an exciting South African batsman acquired during the mega auction after the team decided to part ways with Ishan Kishan. Additionally, MI has welcomed other notable new players, including Trent Boult, Will Jacks, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, and Reece Topley.

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