NEW DELHI: Just when the critics had begun to question his place in the playing XI, Rohit Sharma roared back in vintage style, smashing an unbeaten 76 off 45 balls, his highest score of IPL 2025, to guide Mumbai Indians to a dominant nine-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.
After being left out of the starting XI, Rohit came on as an Impact Substitute and made an immediate statement.
Walking in to bat during the chase, the veteran opener took full control, timing the ball like the “Hitman” of old and tearing through the CSK bowling lineup with elegant brutality.
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Partnering with Suryakumar Yadav (68 not out off 30), the duo stitched an unbeaten 114-run stand that made light work of CSK’s 177-run target.
Their partnership came in just 9 overs, completely silencing critics and delighting a packed Wankhede crowd.
Meanwhile, Rohit’s innings featured four fours and six sixes (the joint-most by the 37-year-old in an IPL innings), with his footwork and shot selection reminiscent of his prime years.
Earlier, MI opted to bowl first, restricting CSK to 176/5.
Shivam Dube (50 off 32) and Ravindra Jadeja (53 not out off 35) were the key contributors for Chennai, after teenage debutant Ayush Mhatre dazzled with a rapid 32 off 15 balls.
But MI’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah (2/25), applied the brakes just in time to prevent a massive total.
This win breathes new life into MI’s campaign, lifting them to sixth position with eight points from as many games.
For Rohit, it wasn’t just about runs; it was a personal comeback story. After a string of low scores and rising questions about his fitness and future, the 37-year-old let his bat do the talking in the most emphatic way possible.
Get the latest IPL 2025 updates on Times of India, including match schedules, team squads, points table and IPL live score for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Don’t miss the list of players in the race for IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple cap.
