IPL 2025: Chopra Questions Rohit Sharma’s Struggles as MI Edge Past SRH

Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Wankhede Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 4 wickets (with 11 balls remaining) on Thursday, April 17. This is the team’s third win in seven games, and the season is not shaping up to be easy for the team. Legendary Rohit Sharma, having problems with the bat, was particularly criticized after the last game by former India cricketer Aakash Chopra.

‘Unacceptable Error’ 

Rohit has amassed just 56 runs in five innings at an average of 11.20 this season, a very worrying sign for MI, considering the team has always relied on top-order stability. In the match against SRH, Sharma started well, and the fans could even think that his performance could signal a return to form. The legendary player smashed three sixes in a 16-ball 26. Soon after, he perished to a full toss, and the crowd was discouraged. As Chopra stated on his YouTube channel, a full toss is simply unacceptable for a famous and experienced player like Rohit.

Problems with Top-order Performance 

Chopra’s criticism of MI’s top-order performance highlighted a significant concern for the team’s balance. Although Ryan Rickelton has played well, the inconsistent support from other batsmen has led to constant reshuffling of the lineup. Will Jacks stood out as the star performer. He delivered an all-round masterclass with 2 wickets and 36 crucial runs. His efforts were vital in maintaining MI’s position during a tense middle phase of the match. Chopra commended Jacks’ performance but criticized the team’s decision-making under pressure. He noted that they could have finished the game in the 16th over instead of dragging it to the 19th and losing wickets to full tosses.

Playoff Hopes are Alive 

MI’s victory keeps their IPL 2025 playoff hopes alive, but the issue of Sharma’s form remains a concern. Every player goes through a rough patch, but the pressure is higher when you’re the team’s longest-serving icon and a key figure in Indian cricket. 

Despite being replaced as captain, Rohit’s presence in the team is still significant, both commercially and emotionally. But cricket, especially in the IPL, is driven by performance, and the team’s and fans’ patience is wearing thin. The management must carefully consider addressing this situation while maintaining the team’s momentum.