Mumbai Indians

Paltan, the excitement kicks in at the Wankhede Stadium as Mumbai Indians gear up for their final league game of IPL 2026, facing Rajasthan Royals on 24th May 2026 in one of the most special games of the season. This is ESA (Education and Sports for All) day, a celebration of dreams, hope and the beautiful bond between education and sport. For junior Paltan, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch their favourite cricketers live in action. Ahead of the big clash, Mumbaicha Raja Rohit Sharma graced MI Charcha with a heartwarming and candid conversation, bringing smiles and classic RO charm to the forefront.

Speaking about the ESA day where over 20000 children will be seen at the Wankhede, Rohit said, “We do understand the importance of this game and the kids who come from different places to watch the game and cheer for us. The entire squad are very aware of what this game brings. Playing for these kids who are there is a different feeling. Of course, we want the result to go in our favour, so they can go back happy and with a smile on their faces. This game means much more than that, we understand the difficulties they go through all year round and just to be there and watch a cricket game live, watch all their favourite cricketers on field, it means a lot to them. It is our responsibility to make sure they are enjoying and having fun.”

Talking about his journey, from early days to his legendary status, he shared his thoughts on what these young kids need to learn. Is it talent, discipline, patience or just the sheer belief that one should chase their dreams?

“It depends from age to age. I know there are kids ranging from six years to 18 years. You do not want to put too much pressure on the kid so early on in their life. They should just be enjoying the sport, watching and playing with their friends. That is how it all started for me. The situation will tell you what is important at this point of time. Enjoy the sport that you want to play. No one can force you to do something.”

Reflecting his thoughts on how the game and format has evolved over the last few years, Rohit opined, “When we started 130-140 was a good score but currently it is difficult. Now, any score one gets does not seem to be very convincing. That is the story which tells you how the game has gone about through the years. People have become more fearless, open minded on how they should go about doing things, which is a good sign for the sport, game and league. The players are not afraid to take a step forward rather than being conservative. In the coming years too, that is how it will keep going, it will reach greater heights.”

It has been almost 20 years of Rohit Sharma in international cricket, and looking back he shared what the sport and game has taught him over so many years. “From my debut till now, there have been so many instances where I got to learn if I have to come up from here then what needs to be done. In sport, there is no smooth ride, along with upwards, there is also a downhill which teaches you many things.”

“I learnt a lot from my India and Mumbai Indians captaincy. How one needs to put everything aside and make sure the team goal is more important. When one is captain, it is a different story because you just do not have to worry about your performance. You also have to worry about others' performances as well. If you have hit a 100 and the others have not been able to perform and the side has lost the game then it is worrisome. It will not give you peace of mind until the results are showing. Even in my personal life, it has taught me about investing, buying, selling and dealing with the person who is sitting in front of me. All of the above comes through because of the sport I play.”

Finally, on his impact, legacy and journey he would like to leave behind for younger cricketers, Rohit said, “I want India to be the powerhouse of world cricket…that is the bottom line as I want India to be the best and cricket is right up there. What we have done in the last three years has been superb to watch. From the 2024 World Cup, Women’s World Cup, U19 World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy and another T20 World Cup. I hope we continue our winning streak.”