Rohit Sharma returned to form when it mattered the most. After two drop catches by Gerald Coetzee and Kusal Mendis, he punished the Gujarat Titans’ bowlers in the Eliminator. The legendary batter scored 81 runs off 50 balls, with the help of 9 fours and 4 sixes. Rohit’s innings helped Mumbai to post 228/5 in 20 overs, and then the bowlers restricted GT to 208/6. Rohit was named the Player of the Match for his effort with the bat in a knockout in New Chandigarh.

He shared an 84-run partnership with Jonny Bairstow, who amassed 47 off 22. The new signing of the five-time champions hit 4 boundaries and 3 sixes. For Mumbai, Jasprit Bumrah was once again the standout bowler, taking 1 wicket and conceding 27 runs from 4 overs.

Rohit spoke to Harsha Bhogle in the post-match presentation ceremony. “I have hit four fifties this season. I would have liked to increase the count. It was a good day for us and everyone understood the importance of the Eliminator. It was a complete team performance and I am proud of it. I wanted to give my best by keeping everything aside. It is important to the job for the team,” Rohit Sharma said.

“After a few lucky escape, I tried to contribute. I was playing similar shots in the previous games but found fielders. I was lucky as catches were dropped. Even after those missed chances, you have to make sure that you score runs and I did it,” he added.

Rohit lauded his opening partner, Bairstow. “I have been watching him for a long time. It didn’t look like he was playing first game for us. He has got a good track record in his format of the game,” he concluded.