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Pollard's Heartfelt Tribute to Rohit Sharma's 15-Year MI Legacy

Mumbai Indians batting coach Kieron Pollard congratulated former skipper Rohit Sharma on completing 15 remarkable years with the franchise. In a heartfelt dressing room speech, Pollard admired Rohit's longevity, leadership, and the experience he brings to the team. He highlighted how Rohit's grit and determination, though not always outspoken, have been instrumental in MI's success. Rohit, who joined MI in 2011 on Sachin Tendulkar's recommendation, has since led the team to five IPL titles.

Key Points: Rohit Sharma Completes 15 Years with Mumbai Indians

  • Rohit Sharma marks 15 years with Mumbai Indians
  • Kieron Pollard delivers heartfelt tribute
  • Rohit debuted for MI in 2011 after Sachin's support
  • His leadership delivered five IPL titles for MI
  • Pollard highlights Rohit's resilience and quiet determination
2 min read

'Blessed to have you': Pollard congratulates Rohit on completing 15 years with MI

Kieron Pollard congratulates Rohit Sharma on 15 years with MI, praising his leadership, grit, and five-title legacy in an emotional dressing room speech.

"You're blessed and privileged to have you in our dressing room. - Kieron Pollard"

Mumbai, April 11

Mumbai Indians batting coach Kieron Pollard congratulated team's former skipper Rohit Sharma on completing 15 years with the franchise and delivered a heartfelt speech in the dressing room, admiring Rohit for his commitment and inspiring the youngsters.

Rohit started his IPL journey with Deccan Chargers from 2008 to 10 before moving to MI in 2011, a transfer strongly supported by Sachin Tendulkar, who was the captain then. Rohit made his MI debut on April 10, 2011, against Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) at the Feroz Shah Kotla (now Arun Jaitley Stadium), scoring an unbeaten 27 runs in a dominant eight-wicket victory, sharing a match-winning partnership with Tendulkar. After 15 years, he is still an important part of the team.

"Not often you get the opportunity to spend 15 years in a franchise. I'm one of the few lucky ones as well to see a journey in Mumbai Indians. 15 years is an incredible journey, and you'd have, you know, gotten a lot of experience, knowledge, and also a lot of money," He said in a video released by MI on X.

"So for 15 years, 15 crores, you put it in this box, and we all share it because this is one family, all right. You know, all jokes aside and on a serious note, I think it's an amazing achievement. No matter what you look at it, the longevity you've had in the international game, franchise cricket, the youngsters, you're all blessed to have someone like yourself here, all right," he added.

Pollard also praised the 38-year-old's presence in the dressing room and lauded his determination.

"You've led this team to championships, you've all been behind you all the way, and you continue to show your leadership qualities. You're not outspoken as everyone expects you to be, but the grit, the heart, and the determination that you have on the cricket field it shows you're somebody who there's a lot of resilience within yourself. Long may success follow you, and you're blessed and privileged to have you in our dressing room," he said.

Rohit Sharma has played in 230 IPL matches for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 5994 runs while scoring two centuries. However, his most significant contribution lies with the captaincy as he helped Mumbai win five titles - 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Pollard's speech was so genuine. You can see the real bond in that dressing room. It's more than just a team, it's a family. Rohit's quiet leadership is truly inspiring.
V
Vikram M
Remember his debut for MI with Sachin paaji! Time flies. From that young talent to the most successful IPL captain ever. His journey is a masterclass in loyalty and growth.
P
Priyanka N
Respect for the achievement, but honestly, his form has dipped in the last couple of IPL seasons. The franchise's loyalty is commendable, but they also need to plan for the future. Just my two cents.
R
Rohit P
"15 years, 15 crores" 😂 Pollard's joke was epic! But on a serious note, what Rohit has built at MI is incredible. He's the calm in the storm. Wishing him many more years! 🏆
K
Karthik V
This is why IPL is special. These stories of legacy. From being backed by Sachin sir to leading the team to glory. He's an institution himself. Proud to be an MI fan!

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