• Rohit Sharma delighted fans by distributing tennis balls after MI's final home game at Wankhede.

  • Mumbai Indians secured a playoff berth for the 11th time in league's history.

IPL 2025 [WATCH]: Rohit Sharma thanks Wankhede crowd in a touching moment after the last home game
Rohit Sharma tossing tennis bowls (Image Source: X)

In a lovely gesture that captured that captured the hearts of spectators, Mumbai Indians’ (MI) veteran Rohit Sharma delighted fans by distributing tennis balls in the stands after the team’s final home game of IPL 2025. The match, held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, marked the end of an emotional home campaign for the franchise, which has had a challenging season.

Rohit Sharma thanks Wankhede crowd for their unwavering support

A video that surfaced online showed Rohit, fondly referred to as ‘Mumbai Cha Raja’ (The King of Mumbai) by fans, walking alongside Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani on the boundary ropes, tossing tennis balls into the stands as they thanked the ever-supportive Mumbai crowd. A symbolic gesture that brought smiles and a sense of connection between the star cricketer and his loyal supporters. The gesture was widely shared on social media, earning praise from fans and fellow cricketers alike for its simplicity and warmth.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Fans go berserk as Mumbai Indians knock Delhi Capitals out of IPL 2025

Rohit, who has been an integral part of the MI since 2011, has been regarded as the backbone of the franchise. Taking over the captaincy in 2013, he led the team to an incredible five IPL titles, establishing one of the most successful legacies in the league’s history. His calm leadership, match-winning performances, and unwavering commitment turned MI into a powerhouse.

Beyond the trophies, Rohit also shares a deep and emotional bond with the Wankhede crowd who have supported him through every high and low. His connection with the city was recently honoured in a historic gesture – a stand at the Wankhede Stadium was named after him just a week ago, a rare tribute to an active player, recognizing his immense contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket.

Mumbai Indians reaches IPL 2025 playoffs

The five-time champions Mumbai have registered a place in the playoffs for the 11th time in IPL history with a dominant win over Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday. Suryakumar Yadav shone with a brilliant innings, while Mitchell Santner impressed with tight, wicket-taking bowling. MI controlled the game from start to finish never allowing DC to gain any momentum. With this crucial victory, Mumbai not only booked their playoff spot but also kept their hopes alive for a top-two finish. Their next match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 26 could be decisive in securing that advantage.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma requests fan to stop recording during family outing with wife and kids

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About the Author:
Varun Verma is a dedicated cricket enthusiast with a flair for storytelling and in-depth analysis. Combining a deep knowledge of the sport with a talent for engaging content creation, he brings the drama and thrill of the game to life for fans around the world. Drawing inspiration from the grit and passion of players like Ben Stokes, Varun aspires to one day experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. He can be reached at varun.verma@crickettimes.com and followed on LinkedIn and X.