'Every team will have its time' - Ex-MI spinner's stunning statement on Hardik Pandya replacing Rohit Sharma as captain in IPL 2024

Hardik Pandya was traded back to the Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League after leading the Gujarat Titans for two seasons. He reunited with the five-time champions, having played for them from 2015 to 2021.

However, MI dropped a bombshell when they appointed Hardik as the captain, replacing Rohit Sharma, who led them to five titles. Fans were left bemused after this call, and Hardik also got booed by them during MI's matches. Some fans felt that MI did not give Rohit the respect he deserved for the services he gave to them since 2011.

However, former MI leg-spinner Rahul Chahar said that it depends on the relationship between a franchise and its player. He opined that whatever happens between the player and the franchise should not reflect on the on-field performances.

"Life goes on. Every team will have its time, there will be new captains. We can't tell anything like that. It is about their connection and who they want to make the captain. But I think it is important as to what you do for the team. Even as a player, Rohit is cool. It's all perfect unless you don't have needs from someone. I think that's what MI wanted, that give your 100% and nothing should be seen on anyone's face. Not only MI, be it any team," he said in an exclusive interview with Filmygyan.

The way he gives confidence, I think it is very important: Rahul Chahar

Chahar also shared his experiences of playing under Rohit's leadership. The former said that Rohit knows how to give his players confidence.

"The way he gives confidence, I think it is very important. A leader trusting a player is very important. I remember times where he looks at my face and feels like I am under pressure, he would put his arms on my shoulder and tell me some random things, not only about cricket, something like be chill. He is very chill," he said.

"As a leader, he knows how to handle everyone. He wouldn't tell the same thing to Bumrah, he would tell him something sensible. He knows what to tell which player, whom to take pressure off," he added.

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In the first Qualifier between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020, Chahar had a forgettable outing, conceding 35 runs in two overs without picking up a wicket. The Haryana cricketer recalled how Rohit gave him confidence after the encounter.

"One incident I cannot forget. We had a semi-final against Delhi in 2020. I went for 30 runs or something off two overs. I kept my head low after the game. Rohit came and told me to lead the team while going back. He told me so what if one game went bad, the whole season was good, right? come walk in front and lead the way. He always motivates us," the former MI spinner stated.