Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder Shardul Thakur recently revealed what he learned from veteran batsman Rohit Sharma about humility and professionalism during the IPL 2026 season. The right-arm pacer stated that Rohit remains steadfast despite his global success and long and illustrious career in international cricket.
Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Wankhede Stadium on April 29. The five-time IPL champions are currently ninth in the 10-team points table with just four points from seven matches and are eagerly awaiting Sharma’s return from a hamstring injury.
Rohit Sharma as a person has always been the same – Shardul Thakur
In a recent interview with Mumbai Indians, Shardul Thakur expressed his admiration for Rohit Sharma. Thakur stated that the senior opener remains humble and respectful to everyone despite achieving global fame and lasting success in international cricket.
“Rohit as a person has always been the same at all times. He is down to earth, he knows his roots, where he comes from, so he respects each and every person. I have told him not to let the child inside him die, that was for a reason,” he said.
“The way he carries himself is very credible even after playing for so many years, seeing stardom and becoming famous. It’s easy for people to change after all this, but… Rohit has remained the same for years. It’s a huge achievement,” Thakur added.
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The first time Rohit Sharma saw me was at school – Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur recalled his early days during school practice sessions. He claimed that Rohit always made him feel comfortable while sharing dressing rooms with Mumbai in domestic cricket and later with the Indian national team.
“Rohit has known me for quite a few years. The first time he saw me was at school during our practice session, I was just 15. Then when I came into the Ranji Trophy scene and then got selected for India, we spent a lot of time together,” Thakur recalled.
“The credit goes to him though being my senior, he has made me feel comfortable. I can joke with him and do the same. Being the senior professional and allowing me to come into his space is a big thing and you won’t find many people doing that,” the pacer added.
I will apply cake on Rohit Sharma’s face – Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur ended his interview with a funny comment ahead of Rohit Sharma’s upcoming birthday celebration. “He has already told us all… don’t put cake on my face. But now what I am saying is that I will put cake on Rohit’s face,” Thakur warned jokingly.
Before Sharma celebrates his 39th birthday tomorrow, Mumbai Indians look for redemption against Sunrisers Hyderabad today. Mumbai Indians are heavily reliant on their first match back after a 103-run loss to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and need quick wins to revive their IPL campaign.
Rohit remains Mumbai’s fourth-highest scorer this season despite missing three matches due to a hamstring injury against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Wankhede Stadium. He has scored 137 runs at an average of 45.67 and a strike rate of 165.06 so far.
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