The absence of Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Rohit Sharma from the captains’ photoshoot with the IPL trophy ahead of the opening match on March 31 left fans surprised. The IPL 2023 season will commence with the clash between defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Narendra Modi stadium.
Before the start of the season, all the captains had gathered in Ahmedabad to pose with the IPL trophy. However, Rohit was missing from the picture, while the other skippers – Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Sunrisers Hyderabad), David Warner (Delhi Capitals), Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals), Hardik Pandya (GT), MS Dhoni (CSK), KL Rahul (Lucknow Super Giants), Shikhar Dhawan (Punjab Kings), Nitish Rana (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Faf du Plessis (Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – were present.
Rohit’s absence from the photo session created a buzz on social media, with fans wondering about the reason behind his absence. Some expressed their concerns on Twitter, seeking clarification.
Where is Rohit sharma 🤔
— SAYYED IQBAL ABDULLAH (SIA) (@iqqiabdullah) March 30, 2023
where is rohit sharma
— Taha Hirani (@TahaHirani1) March 30, 2023
Where is HitMan 👀 ?
— IPLAuctions (@IPLAuctions) March 30, 2023
As per reports, Rohit was unable to attend the pre-IPL captains’ meeting and photoshoot on Thursday as he was “unwell”. An official quoted by TOI stated that he is expected to be available for MI’s opening game against RCB on April 2.
“Rohit Sharma was unwell and thus could not travel to Ahmedabad for the pre-IPL captains’ meeting and photoshoot. He is, however, likely to be available for MI’s opening game in IPL-2023 against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 2,” an official told TOI.
MI have been one of the most successful teams in the IPL, winning the title five times. They have a strong squad this year as well, with several match-winners in their ranks. The Rohit-led side will be hoping to start the season on a winning note and lift the trophy once again.