Mumbai Indians' hopes of recovering from a tough start to their IPL 2025 season were dashed again, as Rohit Sharma's early dismissal derailed their chase against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Wankhede Stadium. Rohit, returning from injury, showed promise early with a couple of solid boundaries. But his stay was cut short at just 17 runs off 9 balls after a sharp delivery from Yash Dayal dismissed him. The wicket fell with Mumbai's score at 21/1 after 1.4 overs.
Mumbai had elected to bowl first, but RCB’s top order, led by Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar, capitalized on the pitch conditions to post a total of 221/5 in 20 overs. The steep chase required a strong start, with all eyes on Rohit, but Dayal had other plans. After conceding a few boundaries, Dayal found his rhythm and struck with a delivery that cut back sharply, leaving Rohit unable to connect. His dismissal highlighted Mumbai’s ongoing batting concerns and raised further questions about Rohit’s current form.
On social media, fans expressed frustration, with one writing, “Rohit Sharma has given up on himself completely… always gets out after 2-4 quick boundaries.” Another fan lauded Dayal: “OUT! Rohit Sharma is gone for 17 off 9… What a comeback from Yash Dayal!” Many fans expressed disappointment with Rohit’s shot selection, with one posting, “It’s disappointing… If he doesn’t start defending straight balls, MI might drop him soon.” Another heartfelt comment read, “As a biggest Rohit fan, I want him to take a break or just retire… we can't see him struggle like that every match.” One fan wrote, “Rohit Sharma should retire now. It feels as if he is batting forcibly, ruining the legacy he created.” Another posted, “In English, we call it ‘finished.’ In Spanish, we call it ‘acabado.’ In French, we call it ‘finito.’ In India, we call him ROHIT SHARMA.”
Rohit has struggled in IPL 2025, scoring 38 runs in four matches at an average of 9.50 and a strike rate of 131.03. His highest score so far has been 17.