Rohit Sharma’s Game-Changing Call Powers Mumbai Indians to Victory Over Delhi Capitals

Mumbai Indians pulled off a dramatic 12-run win over Delhi Capitals in Match 29 of IPL 2025, thanks to Rohit Sharma’s sharp tactical brain that turned the game on its head.

Chasing a steep target of 206, Delhi Capitals looked in complete control with Karun Nair blazing away. At 145/4 in the 13th over, DC needed just 61 runs off 42 balls and were cruising. That’s when Rohit Sharma, sitting in the dugout, made a decisive move.

The turning point came when MI used the new rule allowing teams to request a change of ball after the 10th over of the second innings. Rohit requested the ball change and brought in spinner Karn Sharma, who immediately broke the back of DC’s chase.

Karn Sharma grabbed three crucial wickets, including the well-set Karun Nair, shifting the momentum in Mumbai’s favour. Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh praised Rohit for the bold call. On his YouTube channel, Harbhajan stated, “If they had gone with what Jayawardene said, MI might have lost. Rohit’s tactical awareness as captain shone through. Karn’s three wickets were gold.”

According to Harbhajan, head coach Mahela Jayawardene initially disagreed with Rohit’s suggestion to bring on spinners. But Rohit overruled it, trusting his instincts. “Sometimes coaches must keep their egos aside and focus on the team’s benefit,” Harbhajan added.

This is not the first time Rohit’s absence in the leadership role has been felt. Harbhajan pointed to the incident when Tilak Varma retired out against LSG and Mitchell Santner was sent ahead—decisions that raised eyebrows.

Rohit’s Struggles With the Bat Continue

Despite his success in the tactical department, Rohit Sharma continued to struggle with the bat. Opening the innings alongside Ryan Rickelton, he tried to make the most of the flat pitch. He looked positive early on, hitting two boundaries and a six off Mitchell Starc, but perished for 18 off 12 deliveries while attempting a risky sweep.

This was yet another failure in what has been a disappointing season for Rohit. So far in IPL 2025, he has scored just 56 runs at an average of 11.20. Since the start of IPL 2023, Rohit averages only 24.39 in 25 innings, the second-lowest among openers with at least 25 innings. Only Wriddhiman Saha has a lower average—20.28.

While his batting form continues to dip, Rohit’s impact from the dugout remains as sharp as ever. His call to change the ball and bring in Karn Sharma might go down as one of the smartest moves of the season.

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