Rahul Chahar Reacts to Hardik Pandya Replacing Rohit Sharma as MI Captain

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September 4, 2025 0 446

Rahul Chahar stated that Hardik Pandya replacing Rohit Sharma as MI captain is part of the game, as teams keep changing leaders over time.

Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2024 created one of the biggest talking points of the season. After leading Gujarat Titans for two years, the all-rounder was brought back by MI, where he had earlier played from 2015 to 2021.

Soon after, the franchise replaced Rohit Sharma with Hardik as captain, a move that surprised many fans. While some felt Rohit deserved more respect after guiding MI to five titles, Hardik faced boos from sections of the crowd.

Former MI spinner Rahul Chahar stated that captaincy choices depend on a franchise-player relationship and stressed that off-field decisions should never impact on-field performances.

“Life goes on. Every team will have its time, there will be new captains. We can’t tell anything like that. It is about their connection and who they want to make the captain. But I think it is important as to what you do for the team. Even as a player, Rohit is cool. It’s all perfect unless you don’t have needs from someone. I think that’s what MI wanted, that give your 100% and nothing should be seen on anyone’s face. Not only MI, be it any team,” he said in an exclusive interview with Filmygyan.

Rahul Chahar also opened up about his time playing under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Mumbai Indians, highlighting the skipper’s ability to instill belief in his players. Chahar explained that Rohit understands how to handle individuals differently, knowing when to ease pressure and when to offer guidance. The leg-spinner then recalled the 2020 IPL Qualifier against Delhi Capitals, where he conceded heavily in just two overs. Despite the tough outing, Rohit backed him and ensured his confidence remained intact.

“The way he gives confidence, I think it is very important. A leader trusting a player is very important. I remember times where he looks at my face and feels like I am under pressure, he would put his arms on my shoulder and tell me some random things, not only about cricket, something like be chill. He is very chill,” he said.

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“As a leader, he knows how to handle everyone. He wouldn’t tell the same thing to Bumrah, he would tell him something sensible. He knows what to tell which player, whom to take pressure off,” Chahar continued.

“One incident I cannot forget. We had a semi-final against Delhi in 2020. I went for 30 runs or something off two overs. I kept my head low after the game. Rohit came and told me to lead the team while going back. He told me so what if one game went bad, the whole season was good, right? come walk in front and lead the way. He always motivates us,” the former MI spinner concluded.