India’s Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma returned to the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday, January 14, to train with the Mumbai Ranji Trophy team. The 37-year-old, battling a rough patch in his career, aims to regain form by practicing alongside his domestic teammates.
Rohit endured a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where he managed only 31 runs in five innings, averaging 6.20. Speculations about his potential retirement arose after he opted out of the fifth Test, but Rohit dismissed the rumors, asserting that retirement is not on his radar.
Star Sports shared a video on social media of Rohit at Wankhede Stadium, practicing alongside Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane, his long-time teammate. The session included throwdowns, match simulations, and facing Mumbai’s fast bowlers and spinners. Though Rohit’s participation in Mumbai’s upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Jammu and Kashmir remains uncertain, the video highlights his determination to regain form, focusing on preparation and passion.
Rohit Sharma is back where it all began—training with the Mumbai Ranji team! 🏏 Preparation, passion, and focus in full swing.#RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/DWhqzyS1os
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 14, 2025
Mumbai’s Position in Ranji Trophy 2024-25
Mumbai is currently third in Group A of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, with 22 points from five matches, including three wins, one loss, and one draw. Led by Ajinkya Rahane, who guided Mumbai to a Ranji Trophy title last season, the team is set to face Jammu and Kashmir from January 23 to 26 in their sixth Elite Group A match. This game marks the start of the second leg of the tournament, where Mumbai will aim to solidify their position in the group standings.
Rohit last played a Ranji Trophy match in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. Although speculation suggests he might end his decade-long absence by appearing in the upcoming match, no confirmation has been provided. His presence could bolster Mumbai’s chances in the crucial game.
Manoj Tiwary Confident in Rohit’s Comeback
Former India batter Manoj Tiwary expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma’s ability to bounce back from his current slump. Tiwary noted that while a dip in performance can lower self-confidence, a player of Rohit’s calibre can recover with time and effort.
“He acknowledged his struggles after the Sydney Test and stepped away to reflect. Losing runs impacts confidence, but Rohit is a proven match-winner in white-ball cricket and has the potential to excel in red-ball cricket again. I believe he will work on his game and return stronger,” Tiwary told IANS.
Rohit Sharma’s dedication to his domestic team and ongoing efforts in training underline his commitment to overcoming challenges and reclaiming his form.
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