Mahela Jayawardene breaks her silence about the Mumbai Indians’ captaincy shift, saying, “It is emotional and tough, to be honest.”

The Mumbai Indians have unexpectedly decided to bench veteran skipper Rohit Sharma in favor of all-around player Hardik Pandya in the IPL 2024 season. Former coach Mahela Jayawardene, who is the Head of Cricket, called this decision “tough” and “emotional.”

There have been some raised eyebrows among cricket lovers regarding the selection of Hardik Pandya as captain, following his excellent tenure with the Gujarat Titans. Jayawardene gave supporters comfort, though, in knowing that 37-year-old Rohit Sharma is still very much an active player and would continue to be a key member of the Mumbai Indians.

Tough choices are nothing new for the Mumbai Indians, and Mahela Jayawardene stressed that the decision was part of the team’s long-term strategy.

(long-term plan) As a franchise, we have talked about this. We had to make a difficult decision. To be honest, it’s difficult and emotionally charged. However, everyone who has been a part of Mumbai knows that we value every contribution a player has made and will make in the future, Jayawardene said to Jio Cinema.

Jayawardene also underlined how important it is for the Mumbai Indians team going forward to have Rohit both on and off the field in order to mentor the next generation.

It is critical to us that Ro (Rohit Sharma) be a part of the squad both on and off the field in order to mentor the next generation. He’s been nothing short of extraordinary. I’ve collaborated closely with Ro. “I am confident that he will contribute to the legacy that will see that through because he is a wonderful person,” Jayawardene remarked.

Mumbai had Sachin Tendulkar in the past as well. Mahela Jayawardene

Jayawardene made it abundantly clear that everyone involved in the decision to transfer the captaincy. He highlighted how the great Sachin Tendulkar was prepared to play under different leaders by drawing a comparison to Tendulkar’s early years with the Mumbai Indians.

“That happened in the past in Mumbai when Sachin Tendulkar played with the kids. While ensuring that the Mumbai Indians were headed in the right direction, he delegated authority to another person. That is what it is. We’re excited for the upcoming season because we had this talk and everyone is buying into it,” Jayawardene continued.

The Mumbai Indians are preparing for a new chapter in their history under Hardik Pandya’s direction, but their major priorities are still winning and adding to their legacy.