Mumbai Indians have officially named Hardik Pandya as the captain for the 2024 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), putting an end to Rohit Sharma's remarkable tenure.
Rohit took over the captaincy midway through IPL 2013, from a misfiring Ricky Ponting, leading the team to five IPL titles in 10 seasons.
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As the fourth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, Rohit amassed 6211 runs, with 3986 runs coming as the captain of MI. His legacy as MI's captain is highlighted by the numerous records, including a significant contribution to the development of key players like Hardik Pandya.
Hardik, who began his career at MI in 2015, quickly became a pivotal player with his all-round capabilities. After a release following the 2021 season, Pandya joined the Ahmedabad franchise, Gujarat Titans, and assumed the captaincy.
As he makes a comeback to MI, TSN takes a look at their captaincy record in IPL.
Rohit Sharma vs Hardik Pandya: IPL captaincy record compared
| Matches | Won | Lost | Tied | Win% | Runs | Avg | SR | |
| Rohit Sharma | 158 | 87 | 67 | 4 | 55.06% | 3986 | 30.25 | 129.37 |
| Hardik Pandya | 31 | 22 | 9 | 0 | 70.97% | 833 | 37.86 | 133.49 |
MORE: MS Dhoni's iconic No. 7 jersey retired by BCCI to honour the former captain
How have fans reacted to Hardik Pandya's captaincy decision?
The Mumbai Indians fans have not taken the captaincy announcement easily. It is noticed that Mumbai Indians' Instagram handle has lost over 150,000 followers within 12 hours of the announcement. The fans have expressed their agony over all possible social media platforms.
Mumbai Indians lost around 1.5 Lakh followers today after the announcement. pic.twitter.com/GkaMbcwesc
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 15, 2023
The fans are seen setting the Mumbai Indians jersey to fire. Such has been the disappointment among the fan groups, as the Mumbai franchise announce the change in power in the dressing room.
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) December 15, 2023
Some fans have predicted the downfall of Mumbai Indians as an institution. Rohit Sharma brought the team all the laurels, and the fans are perplexed with his sacking as captain.
Mumbai Indians before captain Rohit Sharma
— Nisha (@NishaRo45_) December 15, 2023
Choking shamelessly every year
History will repeat itself just wait #RohitSharma l #HardikPandya #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/w9OwT3WTzn
Other IPL franchises, including arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings, have posted tributes for Rohit Sharma.
2013 ➡️ 2023 : A decade of spirited challenge! Much respect, Rohit! 🫡🔥 pic.twitter.com/B8rqCmmT5R
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) December 15, 2023
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