Let’s clear this up right away. Good news for 45 number jersey fans that Rohit Sharma was not dropped by Mumbai Indians. He got injured. A hamstring problem kept him off the field, but Mumbai Indians’ poor run of results made fans and followers assume something far worse was going on. The truth is simpler than the rumour.
During Mumbai Indians’ match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on 12 April, Rohit hurt his hamstring. He scored 19 off 13 balls before leaving the field for treatment and did not return. After the game, the team sent him for scans and kept a close eye on his recovery.
Head coach Mahela Jayawardene said the injury was “nothing serious,” but MI still chose not to rush him back. That alone tells you this was about fitness, not form.
Why Did People Think He Was Dropped?
Mumbai Indians have had a rough season. Before 24 April, they had won only two matches and just suffered a massive 103-run loss to Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium on 23 April. When a big team loses badly and a star player is missing, people start asking questions. That is how the rumour started.
How Did MI’s Season Begin?
MI actually started the season well. In their opening match against Kolkata Knight Riders, they chased 221 and won by six wickets. Rohit batted brilliantly, scoring 78 off 38 balls. Ryan Rickelton added 81, and MI completed their highest ever successful IPL chase. It looked like a strong start.
Matches Rohit Missed Due to Injury
After the RCB game, Rohit missed the match against Punjab Kings. He was also unavailable for other games while recovering. Even before the CSK match on 23 April, there was still uncertainty about when he would return.
Also Read: MS Dhoni Injury Update
The CSK Defeat That Fuelled the Rumour
On 23 April, CSK set MI a target of 208 in Wankhede Stadium. MI were bowled out for just 104 in 19 overs, losing by 103 runs. ESPNcricinfo described it as Mumbai Indians’ worst-ever defeat in IPL history and their first time losing three matches in a row in the league. A loss that bad naturally puts every decision under the microscope.
The Final Verdict
Rohit Sharma was not dropped. He was injured. The hamstring problem he picked up against RCB on 12 April is what kept him out. MI’s bad run of results created noise, but the noise was not backed by facts.
