IPL 2024: Was Rohit Sharma 'sacked' as MI skipper for Hardik Pandya? Netizens share memes amid captaincy switch-up

Despite Rohit Sharma's impressive tenure as the captain of Mumbai Indians (MI), the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise revealed on December 15 (Friday) that Hardik Pandya will lead the team in the upcoming season.

At the age of 36, Rohit Sharma maintains his position as the most accomplished captain in IPL history, securing five trophies—a feat only equalled by the legendary MS Dhoni.

ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Netizens divided after Hardik Pandya replaces Rohit Sharma as Mumbai Indians captain

Looking towards the future, Mumbai Indians declared a notable leadership transition for the 2024 season, having acquired the all-rounder through an all-cash trade from Gujarat Titans ahead of the upcoming mini-auction.

The change in captaincy has sparked discussions, with many suggesting that the Indian team captain was "sacked" to pave the way for Pandya. The term "sacked" quickly gained prominence and became a focal point of conversation among netizens on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Commenting on this transition Mahela Jayawardene, Global Head of Performance, Mumbai Indians said "It is part of legacy building and staying true to the MI philosophy of being future-ready. Mumbai Indians have always been blessed with exceptional leadership right from Sachin to Harbhajan and Ricky to Rohit, who while contributing to the immediate success have always had an eye on strengthening the team for the future. It is in keeping with this philosophy that Hardik Pandya will assume captaincy of Mumbai Indians for the IPL 2024 season". 

In the earlier part of 2021, preceding the mega auction, MI had released Pandya, and thereafter, he became a part of GT. During his tenure with GT, he not only captained the team to a title victory in his debut season but also guided them to the final earlier this year.