In a surprising move, former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has suggested that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) should target Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Rohit Sharma in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. Kaif believes that RCB should not only aim to acquire Rohit but also appoint him as their captain, potentially shifting the leadership dynamics for the Bangalore-based franchise.
Kaif, speaking on Star Sports, emphasized Rohit’s leadership capabilities: “I’m telling you with a guarantee that Rohit Sharma turns a player from an 18 to a 20. He understands tactical moves very well. If RCB gets a chance, they should definitely take Rohit Sharma as captain.”
Could Mumbai Indians Release Rohit Sharma?
The suggestion has sparked speculation about whether Mumbai Indians might consider releasing their long-time captain. Under Rohit’s leadership, MI has secured five IPL titles, but the team hasn’t won a trophy in the last four seasons. With the mega auction and new retention rules approaching, there are whispers of MI potentially revamping their squad, which could involve making tough decisions around their captaincy.
Reports suggest that MI will consult Rohit about his future before making retention decisions. Given his pivotal role in MI’s leadership, his say will be crucial in whether he stays or becomes available for other franchises like RCB.
RCB’s Leadership Hunt
RCB has long struggled to clinch their maiden IPL title, despite having star players like Virat Kohli. With the upcoming auction, RCB might be looking for a new leader to bring a fresh approach. The franchise’s potential five retentions for IPL 2025 include Virat Kohli, Will Jacks, Mohammed Siraj, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal, leaving Faf du Plessis out of the retained list and creating a potential vacancy for the captaincy.
Kaif believes that Rohit Sharma’s leadership and experience could be the missing ingredient RCB needs to achieve their first IPL trophy. With his tactical acumen and ability to boost player performance, Rohit could provide the balance RCB has been searching for.
Mumbai Indians’ Dilemma
Mumbai Indians are at a crossroads with their strategy. While Rohit has been instrumental in their success, the team’s recent form has been inconsistent. If MI aims to build a strong future core, they may need to balance the budget between retaining their star captain and investing in new talent. Retaining five players would cost ₹75 crores from MI’s ₹120 crore salary cap, limiting their flexibility in the auction.
Releasing Rohit would free up a significant portion of the budget, allowing MI to explore new talent and potentially form a more balanced squad. This decision could significantly shape both MI’s and RCB’s strategies for the upcoming season, with Rohit’s leadership being a game-changer for either side.