Mahela Jayawardene, Mumbai Indians’ global head of cricket, admitted that replacing Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as captain of the team was a difficult decision but termed it a necessary call keeping the future in mind.
Pandya’s return to MI as captain has drawn sharp reactions from the team’s fan base, but Jayawardene assured that Rohit will remain an integral part of the team.
“It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It’s fair for the fans as well (to respond). I think everyone is emotional and we have to respect that as well. But at the same time, as a franchise you have to make these decisions,” Jayawardene told JIO Cinema.
The former Sri Lanka captain said the decision was taken after meaningful talks.
“Legacy is something we want to build on and make sure we keep fighting for those wins and those titles. That’s the focus going forward.”
“Everyone probably thinks in their eyes it’s too early, but that’s a decision we have to make at some point,” Jayawardene said.
Jayawardene said Pandya fit in well with the leadership environment in Mumbai.
“Hardik (Pandya) has been in the dressing room for some time, so this is nothing new. We know what he offers as an all-rounder,” he said.
“It will be different with his experience leading the team in Gujarat, so it is an opportunity to build on that,” he added. However, Jayawardene said stripping the captaincy would not have any impact on Rohit’s place in the MI organization.
“Having Rohit in the team, on and off the field to guide the next generation is very important for us. He has been absolutely fantastic. I have worked closely with him. I am sure he will be part of the legacy that I see through.”
Jayawardene cited the example of Sachin Tendulkar, who gave up MI captaincy to play as a senior batsman and mentor the younger players in the team to validate his point.
“Sachin played with the youngsters. He gave the leadership to someone else and made sure Mumbai Indians were going in the right direction. It is the same thing.
We had this conversation and everyone is convinced. He added: “We have to look forward to next season.”
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