Rohit Sharma and Mumbai Indians’ bond has been a very special one. It has lasted for 13 years, a tenure that saw MI win five IPL titles, the joint highest alongside Chennai Super Kings. In IPL 2024, things have been different, and that’s not an exaggeration at all.
The Mumbai Indians have had a horrific Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 campaign. With just 4 wins in the 12 games they’ve played so far, the paltan from Mumbai have made themselves out of playoff contention.
The franchise which already was dealing with the leadership blunder is now facing a backlash due to its poor performances this season. Amidst the turmoil, there are rumours of Rohit Sharma possibly taking an exit from the Mumbai Indians camp and probably from the IPL as well once the team finishes playing all their league-stage games. It indeed is going to be a big loss for Mumbai if Rohit Sharma steps out. Both in terms of skills and terms of money.
Mumbai Indians is more of a temple than a franchise for Rohit Sharma. It’s a temple that he has built. Rohit has so far given the legacy that no other captain did for the Mumbai Indians.
When it comes to losing for the team, it’s very much given that the Management backs Hardik, but the players are in strong favor of Rohit. The hitman so far has not only been their Captain but also has been one of their biggest support systems. The majority of the players at the franchise are in favor of Rohit because of the way he treats his team-mates and keeps the communication clear. As per reports, Rohit Sharma has a massive backing from players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Verma.
Moreover, if Rohit Sharma decides to leave the franchise, Mumbai Indians, the 87 million valued franchise as a brand is also expected to suffer heavy losses. Their associations with some of the major brands and sponsors are anticipated to come to an end or are expected to hit a low due to the decreased brand value of the team. Walking away from a person of caliber like Rohit Sharma may result in walking away from the brand value that he brings to the team as well.
If Rohit Sharma leaves the Mumbai Indians, it could affect their brand value. Rohit is not just a player, he’s also the face of MI. With him being with the Mumbai Indians for over a decade, Rohit Sharma has helped them win many games. People know him well and like him, so if he leaves, some fans might feel disappointed and might not support the team as much.
Also, Rohit is a popular player, so his departure could affect the team’s performance on the field. If they start losing more matches without him, it might make fans lose interest in the team. Sponsors might also be less interested in working with the team if they’re not doing well. So, if Rohit leaves, it could have a big impact on the Mumbai Indians’ brand value.
In a similar scenario, when megastars like Ronaldo left Real Madrid and Messi left Barcelona, it hit the brand values of both teams. Ronaldo and Messi are not just incredible footballers; they are global icons with massive fan followings. Their departure meant a loss of star power and excitement for the teams. Fans who supported Real Madrid because of Ronaldo or Barcelona because of Messi might feel less connected to the teams without them.
Additionally, sponsors and advertisers often associate themselves with successful and popular players, so their absence could affect the teams’ financial partnerships and revenue streams. Overall, losing Ronaldo and Messi was a blow to the brand values of Real Madrid and Barcelona, highlighting the significant influence that star players have on the perception and success of sports teams.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye.
