Rohit Sharma Shines in IPL Eliminator, Leading Mumbai Indians to Victory

Rohit Sharma's Performance Against Gujarat Titans

New Delhi [India] May 31: Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa noted that Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai Indians (MI) batter, encountered some difficulties during his recent match against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the first eliminator of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday.

However, Uthappa believes that Rohit managed to regain his composure, played strategically, and established crucial partnerships. He emphasized Rohit's ability to maintain calm under pressure, stating that when a player of Rohit's caliber is at the crease, it shifts the focus onto the other players. Uthappa also mentioned that Sai Sudharsan is beginning to exhibit similar skills.

The 'Hitman' once again showcased his talent in a high-stakes match, leading MI to a 20-run victory over GT, securing a place in the IPL final against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

“After an early mishap, Rohit briefly flirted with danger but quickly understood the importance of taking charge. He adjusted his game, played with responsibility, identified gaps, and forged significant partnerships. His calmness was remarkable. When players like Rohit, Dhoni, or Kohli are batting, the pressure mounts on everyone else. Sai Sudharsan is also starting to reach that level,” Uthappa commented during Match Centre Live on JioHotstar.

As of now, Rohit has played 14 matches this season, scoring 410 runs at an average of 31.53, including four half-centuries and a strike rate of 150.18. His highest score this season is 81, making him MI's second-highest run-scorer after Suryakumar Yadav, who has amassed 673 runs in 15 innings with five fifties.

In the same match, Rohit Sharma achieved the milestone of 7000 runs in the lucrative league, becoming only the second player after his long-time teammate Virat Kohli to reach this landmark. Rohit has accumulated 7038 runs in 271 matches, averaging 29.82, with two centuries and 47 fifties, and his best score being 109*.