As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction approaches, the future of Mumbai Indians (MI) stalwart Rohit Sharma remains uncertain. After being removed as captain ahead of the previous season, reports suggest a strained relationship between Rohit and the franchise, leading to speculation about his departure.
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Rohit may be traded to a new team during the trade window. “I feel he will not stay. Whoever is retained will be with the thinking that he will remain with you for three years, unless your name is MS Dhoni,” Chopra said. “Rohit Sharma at MI, I feel he might himself leave or MI might leave him.”
Chopra also discussed the future of Suryakumar Yadav, who has also been linked with a move away from MI. However, Chopra believes Surya is unlikely to leave the franchise at this stage of his career. “I don’t think Suryakumar Yadav will be traded. The Mumbai Indians won’t leave Suryakumar Yadav and I feel Surya also won’t leave either,” he said.
Rohit Sharma’s departure would mark a significant change for MI, who have been led by the Indian opener since 2013. Under his captaincy, MI won five IPL titles, making them the most successful franchise in the tournament’s history.
If Rohit does leave, MI will need to find a new captain and a replacement for his opening batting position. Potential candidates for the captaincy include Hardik Pandya, who led the team in 2022, and Ishan Kishan, who has impressed as an opener for India.
The IPL 2025 mega auction is expected to be held in December 2024. All teams will have the opportunity to retain a maximum of four players, with the remaining players entering the auction pool.
