IPL 2023: “I Don’t Think He Should Take Rest” – Mark Boucher on Rohit Sharma

Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Mark Boucher didn’t agree with suggestions that captain Rohit Sharma should take a break from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 so that he can be fresh for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final as well. However, the veteran stated that the captain has not asked for rest so far and that if he is available, he will play in the league too.

However, Rohit Sharma has scored 181 runs in seven matches in IPL 2023 so far, which came at an average of 25.86 and a strike rate of 135.07, with one half-century as well. Sharing his views on the Mumbai Indians captain, Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar recently suggested that he should take a break from the IPL to keep himself fresh and ready for the WTC final. At a press conference prior to Mumbai’s match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday, April 30, Boucher opined on that. He said:

“No, I don’t think he should take rest. That’s not my call to make. Obviously, we want Rohit playing, because he’s a very good player, and a leader as well, If it is the best for Rohit, and he comes up to me and says ‘you know, I need a bit of a break’ then yes, we will address that, and I will consider that. He hasn’t done that.“So yes at the moment, if he is available to play, he will play.”

While the IPL 2023 final will take place on May 28, the WTC final between India and Australia will be played at The Oval from June 7 to 11 as well.

IPL 2023: Mark Boucher praises Rohit Sharma for his batting skill and captaincy

However, the upcoming match on Sunday will be special for Rohit Sharma as he will be leading MI in front of his home crowd on his 36th birthday as well. He has also been leading the franchise for 10 years now. Sharing his thoughts on Rohit’s growth as a cricketer and leader, Boucher said:

“He has been great. I used to always enjoy watching Rohit bat, sometimes from behind the stumps as well. I have played a bit of cricket with him and watched him grow into a quality cricketer but also a good leader. It’s going to be nice for him. It’s his birthday as well, so a big moment for him.”

While talking about his form, the veteran shared that the team is happy with the way Rohit Sharma is performing.

“I think Rohit is in good form. He has been hitting the ball really well in the nets. Just the other day, he got some good runs for us. He’s playing a nice and aggressive brand of cricket. He’s fulfilled the role that we have needed him to fulfill in this season so far. If Rohit plays aggressively like he has, he can be devastating for any opposition,” he concluded.