In a beautiful display of mutual respect and emotional bond, Rajasthan Royals pacer Akash Madhwal was seen greeting Rohit Sharma with folded hands after Mumbai Indians thrashed Rajasthan Royals by 100 runs in Jaipur. The moment, captured after the match, served as a reminder of the long-standing connection between the two, built during their time together at Mumbai Indians.

Madhwal, who now represents Rajasthan Royals, rose to prominence under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. Back in 2022, Madhwal started as a net bowler for MI and was added to the squad after Suryakumar Yadav was injured. Despite not playing that season, Rohit had immense belief in the Uttarakhand pacer’s abilities. By IPL 2023, Madhwal became a key figure, often trusted to deliver in pressure situations like the powerplay and death overs.

“He has a lot of skills, a good attitude and a lot of character as well,” Rohit had said after MI progressed to the second qualifier in 2023. Madhwal, too, had credited his success to Rohit, saying, “Rohit bhaiya knew my strength was yorkers and gave me the confidence and opportunity to deliver where the team needed me.”

That respect was on full display again tonight.

Match Recap

Mumbai Indians arrived in Jaipur without a win at the venue since 2012—but they flipped the script in dominant style. MI piled up 217/2, equalling the highest IPL total at the ground. In response, RR were bowled out for 117, crashing out of playoff contention.

Rohit Sharma scored a classy 53, while Ryan Rickelton blasted 61. Their calculated assault in the powerplay laid the foundation. Rohit also crossed 6000 IPL runs for MI in the match. Suryakumar Yadav (48*) and Hardik Pandya (48*) added late fireworks to push the total.

RR’s chase never took off as MI bowlers tightened the screws. Boult (3/28), Karn Sharma (3/23), and Bumrah (2/15) dismantled the batting lineup.

But amidst all the stats and dominance, it was Madhwal’s heartfelt gesture toward his former captain that stole hearts.