Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has expressed concern over the form of Mumbai Indians' Rohit Sharma, who once again fell victim to a low score, managing only a single digit. The team, led by Hardik Pandya, faced a defeat by 36 runs against the Gujarat Titans, marking their second consecutive loss in the ongoing 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Rohit Sharma has struggled to accumulate runs in this lucrative league. In the opening match against CSK, the Indian captain was dismissed without scoring, as Khaleel Ahmed sent him back to the pavilion.

During the encounter with the Gujarat Titans, Rohit managed to hit two boundaries within the first three deliveries of the Mumbai Indians' innings. However, on the fourth delivery, Mohammed Siraj delivered a well-executed ball that sharply turned back in, breaching Rohit's defense and leading to his dismissal.

In the past five years, Rohit Sharma has only surpassed 400 runs in a single IPL season. Tiwary raised concerns about Rohit's performance, questioning why he has not been able to consistently achieve seasons with 600-700 runs.

Tiwary also referenced the previous IPL season, which was marked by significant drama due to the change in captaincy for the Mumbai Indians. Hardik Pandya took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, a move that was met with disapproval from fans, who booed the all-rounder at every venue.

I must emphasize that while I do not wish to be overly harsh, it is necessary at times. Certain players require this approach. It is crucial for Rohit Sharma to return to form and start scoring runs. A player of his caliber should not settle for just 400 runs in a season. Last year, he managed to score 400 runs and even achieved a century, which is commendable. However, we need to see a season where he accumulates 800 to 900 runs. Rohit has not been able to deliver such performances consistently. In contrast, Virat Kohli consistently finds ways to score; can you explain why that is? Both players are equally talented, yet Rohit needs to have a season where he scores between 600 and 700 runs, as Manoj Tiwary expressed to Cricbuzz.

He should aim to claim the orange cap. A strong start is essential for success. My expectations for him are high, which is why he was retained. Despite the controversies and drama surrounding last year, which led many to believe he might leave, he was kept on the team. However, following his lack of runs in the last two matches, the atmosphere must be somewhat tense.

'Isn't it too late'

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, a supporter of Rohit Sharma, also commented that it may be challenging for the Indian captain to achieve a season with over 600 to 700 runs as time is running out.

"What Manoj Tiwary mentioned about Rohit Sharma raises a valid point—where is that standout season? Is it too late for such a season to materialize (laughs)? We are fans of his, but we are left wondering about the absence of a 600-700 run season. In 18 years, he has not accomplished this, so how can we expect it now, especially as he approaches the latter stages of his career?" Sehwag questioned.

Following their defeat to the Gujarat Titans, the Mumbai Indians have fallen to ninth place in the points table. The team will face the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.

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