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Nita Ambani Praises Rohit Sharma's Stunning Fitness Transformation Ahead of IPL

Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani met the team ahead of their IPL opener, notably praising captain Rohit Sharma's significant fitness transformation. Rohit has dedicated himself to physical conditioning following his Test retirement, with the 2027 Cricket World Cup as a major career goal. His recent ODI form has been strong, earning him a Player of the Series award against Australia. The star batter will be aiming to translate that form into a high-scoring IPL season, something he hasn't consistently achieved in recent years.

Key Points: Nita Ambani Meets Rohit Sharma, Lauds Fitness Before IPL

  • Nita Ambani meets MI squad
  • Praises Rohit's fitness transformation
  • Rohit focused on 2027 World Cup
  • Aims for strong IPL season
  • Recent ODI form impressive
3 min read

Nita Ambani meets Mumbai Indian team squad, praises Rohit Sharma's fitness transformation

Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani meets squad, praises a leaner Rohit Sharma's fitness ahead of IPL opener and his 2027 World Cup goal.

"My god, Rohit, I did not recognise you! You look like a young boy - Nita Ambani"

Mumbai, March 27

Mumbai Indians team owner Nita Ambani had a wholesome exchange with the franchise's star batter Rohit Sharma, lauding his fitness transformation over the last few months.

Nita had come to meet the squad ahead of their Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign opener against three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) scheduled for Sunday.

In the video posted on MI's official X handle, Nita was heard saying, "My god, Rohit, I did not recognise you! You look like a young boy".

Over the last few months, Rohit has transformed his health, looking more fit and lean.

In response, Rohit could not help himself, but just smile. Following his retirement from Test cricket in May last year, Rohit put in a lot of work on his physical fitness in order to keep his 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup dream alive. Having missed the trophy by inches following a heart-wrenching loss during the 2023 final at Ahmedabad, the Hitman, who will turn 39 next month, will be aiming to finally achieve the elusive trophy and go out with on a high following the 2027 World Cup, to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Last year, Rohit ended up with 650 ODI runs in 14 matches at an average of 50.00 and a strike rate of over 100, with two centuries and four fifties. He also had a decent ICC Champions Trophy, scoring a match-winning 76 in the final against New Zealand. On his return to the ODIs months later against Australia, Rohit had a much leaner, fitter physique and won the 'Player of the Series' award for 202 runs in three matches, including a century, a fifty and an unbeaten knock of 121* at Sydney.

He would be eyeing a memorable run-feast during the IPL, something Rohit has not been able to for years.

The second-highest run-getter in the league with 7,046 runs in 272 matches with two centuries and 47 centuries at a strike rate of 132.09, Rohit has failed to live up to his tag as a marquee player performance wise in recent years.

The last time Rohit had a 450-plus run season was back in 2016, when he made 489 runs in 14 innings with five fifties. His best season came in 2013, when he scored 538 runs in 19 innings, including four fifties. This remains his sole season with 500 runs or more.

After 2016, Rohit has had only three seasons with 400 or more runs. In the past nine seasons, he has made 3,172 runs in 129 innings at an average of 26.00, with just a century and 18 fifties.

Last season, he made 418 runs in 15 innings at an average of 29.86 and a strike rate of 149.29, with four fifties and a best score of 81.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's wonderful to see the team owner taking such a personal interest and praising the players. Nita Ambani's support must mean a lot to the squad. Wishing MI all the best for the opener against KKR!
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Arjun K
Respect for the hard work, but let's be honest, the article points out his IPL numbers have been declining for years. Fitness is great, but we need runs from our captain. Hope this transformation translates into big scores this season. MI needs him to fire.
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Priya S
"You look like a young boy" 😂 That's such a typical aunty thing to say! So wholesome. His smile says it all. All this effort for the World Cup... after 2023, we are all with you, Rohit! Bring it home in 2027!
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Karthik V
His ODI form last year was top-class. If this fitness regime helps him maintain that intensity in T20s, bowlers better watch out. A fit and in-form Rohit Sharma is a nightmare for any opposition. Can't wait for the IPL to start!
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Michael C
Interesting read. The stats about his post-2016 IPL performance are quite revealing. It's a tough balance managing workload across formats. Hopefully, stepping back from Tests gives him the longevity he needs for these final career goals.

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