Rohit Sharma Comes Off the Bench to Orchestrate Mumbai Indians’ Stunning Turnaround vs DC

In what will go down as one of the most memorable comebacks of IPL 2025, the Mumbai Indians pulled off a stunning turnaround against the Delhi Capitals on Sunday, largely thanks to some sharp thinking from their legendary former captain, Rohit Sharma.

The match, played under high stakes and in front of a charged crowd, saw Mumbai Indians clinch a thrilling 12-run victory, registering only their second win in six matches this season. The game was poised delicately when Delhi Capitals, chasing a daunting target of 206, looked in control at 145 for 4 after 13 overs. With only 61 runs needed off the final seven overs and six wickets in hand, the odds seemed to heavily favor Delhi.

But the momentum of the game shifted dramatically—and the catalyst was Rohit Sharma, who had been substituted out earlier in the match under the Impact Player rule. From the dugout, Rohit observed the match carefully and noticed the condition of the ball had changed. After Mumbai successfully requested a ball change post the 13th over, Rohit quickly conferred with MI bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and head coach Kumar Sangakkara. The trio devised a tactical plan that would turn the tide of the game.

Rohit advised skipper Hardik Pandya to introduce spin into the attack, realizing the newly introduced dry ball would offer turn and grip on the pitch. The move proved to be a masterstroke. Spinners Karn Sharma and Mitchell Santner rose to the occasion, applying immense pressure on Delhi’s batters. Karn picked up 3 wickets for 36 runs, while Santner grabbed 2 for 43, stalling the chase just when Delhi looked to accelerate.

Visuals shared by the host broadcaster captured Rohit deep in conversation with the MI think tank, delivering crucial tactical inputs at just the right moment. It was a classic example of Rohit’s cricketing brain at work—his understanding of the game, even off the field, once again making a telling impact.

Earlier in the day, after being put in to bat, Mumbai Indians put up a strong total of 205 for 5. Tilak Varma led the charge with a gritty 59 off 33 deliveries, showcasing maturity and aggression in equal measure. His knock included 6 boundaries and 3 sixes. He was well supported by Ryan Rickelton (41), Suryakumar Yadav (40), and Naman Dhir, who provided the finishing touch with an unbeaten 38. Delhi’s Kuldeep Yadav was the most economical bowler, returning impressive figures of 2 for 23 in his four overs.

Despite the imposing target, Delhi’s chase began on a solid note. The top order built partnerships steadily, keeping them within touching distance of the required rate. However, once the spin duo was introduced and pressure mounted, mistakes crept in. Some poor running between the wickets, particularly in the 19th over, further dented their chase and tilted the balance toward Mumbai.

Hardik Pandya’s captaincy deserves credit too. He not only executed Rohit’s suggestion with precision but also kept his composure during crunch moments. This was just his second win as captain this season, and it couldn’t have come at a better time for the under-pressure franchise.

The win breathes life into Mumbai’s IPL 2025 campaign. With key players like Jasprit Bumrah having missed the early matches and Hardik returning after the opener, MI had struggled to find consistency. This victory, however, highlights the depth of experience in the squad and the value of strategic thinking—even from the sidelines.

In the end, while the players on the field executed the plans, Rohit Sharma’s off-field leadership proved decisive. Even as a ‘substitute’, his influence was undeniable—once again reminding fans why he’s considered one of the sharpest minds in the game.

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