In a recent discussion regarding Rohit Sharma's future in the IPL, Jonty Rhodes, the fielding coach for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), shared his insights amidst ongoing speculation about the Indian captain potentially leaving the Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2025. Rhodes, who has worked closely with Rohit during their tenure at Mumbai, expressed his admiration for the cricketer's skills and elegance, emphasising how enjoyable it was to watch Rohit practice and play.
Despite his respect for Rohit, Rhodes clarified that LSG's success is not reliant on any single player, highlighting the importance of team balance. He remarked, "I love watching Rohit Sharma bat, but I'm not saying he must come in and replace, and then suddenly we change our setup." He reassured that whatever happens regarding Rohit's future, he would strive to support the team's ambitions.
Rhodes further indicated that any team would benefit from Rohit's experience and leadership, acknowledging that decisions about team composition are beyond his purview. He emphasised Rohit's down-to-earth attitude and the value he brings to high-pressure situations, stating, "He's a good man. Having worked with him at MI, he brings real value in his captaincy and batting."
The discussion also touched on LSG's current skipper, KL Rahul, whose future has become a topic of speculation following a disappointing performance and a reprimand from franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka. Goenka affirmed Rahul's place within the LSG "family," though the uncertainty remains regarding the retention of key players.
When asked about the possibility of acquiring Rohit Sharma in the auction, Goenka maintained a cautious stance, highlighting the necessity for strategic decision-making in player auctions. "It all depends on whether Mumbai Indians release Rohit Sharma or not," he said, acknowledging the complexities involved in roster management. Thus, while the future remains uncertain, both Rhodes and Goenka's comments reflect a recognition of Rohit's value in the game, irrespective of team affiliations.