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Rohit Sharma's dismal start to the IPL 2025 season has been downplayed by Kane Williamson, who believes the Mumbai Indians former captain will improve as the season goes on. In MI's opening game against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, March 23, Rohit smashed the ball from Khaleel Ahmed straight to the outfield and was removed for a four-ball duck. As Rohit's troubles in the IPL persisted, this was the 49th time he has been removed by a left-arm bowler.
Kane Williamson on Rohit Sharma
Concerns were raised regarding Rohit's performance in the tournament because this was his 18th duck in the IPL. Williamson, however, dismissed it, saying it was only the first game. The New Zealand player said he expects that Rohit will continue to play freely in the tournament while speaking on Star Sports.
"It’s just the first match. Khaleel Ahmed has a real knack for taking early wickets in the powerplay, and that set the tone for the Chennai side. As for Rohit, he has faced a huge number of left-arm pacers throughout his career, and he will continue to play with freedom. There’s a long tournament ahead, and I’m excited to see how he goes," said Williamson.
Wankhede, in Williamson's opinion, will provide MI with an entirely new challenge that would also fit Rohit's hitting.
"We’ll also see a lot of variety in conditions. Here in Chennai, batsmanship—getting through tricky phases—is crucial. But when they return to Wankhede, it will be a completely different challenge, with conditions that suit Rohit and his team’s style of play," said Williamson.
Rohit finished the previous season with 417 runs at an average of 32 from 14 games. After leading India to victory in the Champions Trophy and scoring a brilliant innings in the final, the Indian ODI skipper entered the event. MI's losing streak in the opening games was further prolonged with the defeat to CSK. They will now prepare to play the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Saturday, March 29.
