Rohit has been a very good leader, says Mahela

Rohit Sharma, who opens for India in the ODIs, has been batting at No 4 for Mumbai Indians this season. Coach Mahela Jayawardene, appreciative of Rohit’s leadership skills, said the Mumbai captain has been brilliant at the spot and has helped the team with his consistent show in the middle order.

Rohit recently said he would love to open the innings, but keeping the team balance in mind he was happy sacrificing his favoured place. Jayawardene called Rohit a good leader.

“Rohit returned from a very serious operation and we just wanted him to get the feel of the park, playing cricket. In the first few games, we were very careful as he hadn’t played any domestic cricket. But has been a very good leader. Has taken a lot of responsibility. A different role for him this year to bat at No 4 and he has been brilliant. He has taken the team in that concept in which we wanted him to go and gradually he is building. He has been very consistent in the back end,” Jayawardene said ahead of their contest against the Delhi Daredevils.

With just two defeats in the 10 matches, Mumbai became the first team to enter the play-off. Giving a peek into their approach, the coach said: “It was a conscious effort that we have a good start to the season because you don’t want to be in a situation where you want to win a lot of games and hope that other teams do you favours.”