Former spinner Harbhajan Singh praised Rohit Sharma’s strategy and criticised MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene after MI’s dramatic 12-run win over DC.
Mumbai Indians (MI) clinched a thrilling 12-run win over Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on April 13. After the match, former MI spinner Harbhajan Singh praised Rohit Sharma’s game-changing tactical move and criticised MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene for reportedly not agreeing with the suggestion.
Harbhajan, speaking on his YouTube channel, credited Rohit’s call to bring in leg-spinner Karn Sharma as the turning point of the game. According to the 44-year-old, it was Rohit’s instinctive decision-making that helped MI bounce back when DC seemed set for victory.
“A crucial ploy by Rohit Sharma turned a loss into a win. DC was running away with the game. Karun Nair was batting brilliantly. Nobody was able to stop him. He was playing like Pushpa, spreading like wildfire. In the 13th over, it seemed like DC would win. But just then Rohit asked the head coach, Mahela Jayawardene, to employ spinners and bring Karn Sharma into the attack,” said Harbhajan.
“I think Mahela Jayawardene did not agree with Rohit Sharma. If they had gone with what Jayawardene had to say, the Mumbai Indians would have also lost this game. Rohit Sharma was there, he had the best move. He is the captain. He always thinks like a captain. A captain is always the captain, and his tactical acumen helped Mumbai win,” he added.
Harbhajan further noted that Karn Sharma’s three-wicket haul was the match-defining moment and took a swipe at Jayawardene’s past decisions. He expressed hope that Rohit continues to play a guiding role for the team from the dugout.
“Karn Sharma came into the attack and took three wickets, turning the game’s tide. It was a gold move. This wouldn’t have happened when Tilak Varma retired against Lucknow and Mitchell Santner was sent in if Rohit Sharma had been in the dugout. Mahela Jayawardene made a bad move. Rohit was incredible against Delhi Capitals. Sometimes, the coaches must keep their egos aside and consider how the team can benefit. I hope Rohit Sharma keeps sharing his inputs from the dugout,” he said.
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