Rohit returned to action in style after an injury layoff, smashing 84 off 44 balls to guide Mumbai to a six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants in a record chase of 229 at the Wankhede Stadium. His 143-run opening partnership with Ryan Rickelton laid the foundation for only MI\u2019s third win of the season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Gavaskar, who has closely observed Rohit\u2019s evolution over the past year, pointed out a clear shift in focus since the batter stepped away from leadership roles. With MI still hanging by a thread in the playoff race, the veteran feels Rohit\u2019s form could make them a dangerous opponent in the closing stages.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI have been watching Rohit Sharma closely over the last year. Ever since he was removed as captain in white-ball cricket and the IPL, he has focused more on his batting. He scored runs in the ODI series against Australia, did well in the home series, and now he is doing the same in the IPL. If he continues this form, Mumbai Indians will hurt the playoff hopes of many teams in the remaining matches,\u201d Gavaskar told JioStar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While Rohit has often been known for providing brisk starts rather than big scores, Gavaskar stressed that his impact at the top has always been significant.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIn the IPL, he usually scores 400 to 500 runs a season, but his knocks are often impactful. He may not have many 80-plus innings, but his 40 to 50-run starts give his team early momentum,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, the veteran batting legend believes Rohit is now aiming for greater influence by batting deeper into the innings, as he said, \u201cThe change in his game is clear: he now wants to bat deeper and leave a bigger impact.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Gavaskar also highlighted the range and authority in Rohit\u2019s strokeplay during the knock against LSG, where he combined control with aggression, stating, \u201cIn this 84-run knock, we saw all the typical Rohit Sharma shots. The pull shot was on display. Short balls disappeared into the stands. Full deliveries were driven through the cover region. He also lofted long off with ease.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, the veteran batting legend believes Rohit is now aiming for greater influence by batting deeper into the innings, as he said, \u201cThe change in his game is clear: he now wants to bat deeper and leave a bigger impact.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAgainst left-arm spinner M Siddharth, he played down the ground, hitting against the turn. We saw a focused Rohit Sharma against LSG,\u201d Gavaskar noted.<\/p>\r\n\r\n