Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav urged to convert starts as MI fall short in run chase vs RCB: ‘Missing in this lineup’

After MI lost to RCB, Zaheer Khan urged senior batters like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav to convert their starts.

Published on: Apr 13, 2026, 12:30:49 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Zaheer Khan urged Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav to find some form after Mumbai Indians' 18-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday. Chasing 241 runs, MI openers Ryan Rickelton and Rohit Sharma started strong. However, after the fifth over, Rohit retired hurt, having scored 19 off 12 balls. Meanwhile, Rickelton also failed to build on his start, losing his wicket for 37 off 22 balls in the eighth over. Meanwhile, MI skipper Suryakumar also got a good start, but departed for 33 off 22 balls in the 13th over.

Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav failed to convert their starts vs RCB. (AP)

Despite a late effort from Sherfame Rutherford (71*), MI crumbled to a defeat, reaching 222/5 in 20 overs. Speaking on Cricibuzz, Zaheer urged Suryakumar, Tilak Varma, Rohit and Rickelton to convert their starts.

Also Read: Virat Kohli stops to share a wholesome moment with Sachin Tendulkar; Master Blaster’s gesture in return is cherry on top

"I think, players getting starts but not converting (them) into a big one. If you have to be critical, I think this team will be talking about those kind of aspects of the game, wherein they have that kind of quality and ability. If one of them gets a 60 or a 70, then, suddenly, the game unfolds differently. You can rally around that guy whoever is having a good day. And that is something which is missing in this MI lineup. They are used to seeing those kind of batting performances," he said.

"Be it Surya, be it Tilak, be it Rohit, or Rickelton for that matter. One of them needs to get a good, big fifty to really hold that one end for them to set that platform. That's how their role (is). Set the platform for the back end and the strike rate takes care of itself when bowlers are under pressure."

Meanwhile, Rohit retired hurt in the first innings due to a hamstring issue. Zaheer suggested that if Rohit is injured, Naman Dhir could open in his place.

"They have a few options there. There is Naman Dhir who can open also, if Rohit is not available because of injury. I cannot think of any other guy who can take that opening slot other than Surya. Or maybe, go in the direction of Quinton de Kock, which is going to again, change the balance of the team," he said.

Initially, half-centuries from Phil Salt (78), Rajat Patidar (53) and Virat Kohli (50) guided RCB to 240/4 in 20 overs. Meanwhile, Kohli also suffered an injury in the first innings.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

Get live cricket scores, match updates, schedules, results and ICC rankings. Follow the latest news, statistics and performances of top teams and players on Hindustan Times.