How Did Rohit Sharma Fool Delhi Capitals Into Wasting a DRS Review? Explained

Mumbai Indians batter Rohit Sharma once again showcased his sharp cricketing brain during IPL 2026, cleverly tricking Delhi Capitals into wasting a review in a moment that left even commentators impressed.

The incident took place during the IPL 2026 clash between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, when Rohit used his experience to manipulate the situation and force the opposition into taking a DRS call that ultimately went in his favour.

How Rohit Sharma Set the Trap

The moment unfolded on the fifth delivery of the ninth over, bowled by Kuldeep Yadav, when Rohit attempted a sweep shot and missed the ball.

Delhi Capitals players made a loud appeal for caught behind, but Rohit's reaction added an unexpected twist. Instead of staying still, he began walking a few yards away from the crease before returning to the middle, a move that appeared to reinforce Delhi's belief that there had been an edge.

Encouraged by the appeal and Rohit's body language, KL Rahul and Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel opted to take the review.

However, replays soon revealed that the ball had not touched Rohit's bat and had instead brushed past the pad. The review was overturned, and Delhi Capitals lost one of their valuable reviews.

As the cameras turned back to Rohit, he could be seen laughing - fully aware that his plan had worked.

Ravi Shastri Calls Rohit Sharma Tactics "Brilliant"

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who was on air at the time, praised Rohit's awareness and described the moment as a masterclass in game intelligence.

"How good was Rohit Sharma there. He has foxed them into taking a review by walking five yards towards the square leg. We have to see that again. That's brilliant from Rohit Sharma," Shastri said on air.

Former Zimbabwe pacer Pommie Mbangwa also admired Rohit's presence of mind, highlighting how his reaction created doubt in the fielding side.

"Rohit's walking back, and he's halfway to the fence. The beauty was when he started laughing once they went upstairs. He's laughing because, 'I got you and I made you take it. You are going to lose a review.'"

Rohit Sharma Explains His Thought Process

Speaking later during the mid-innings break, Rohit admitted that the move involved a bit of instinct and familiarity with Kuldeep Yadav's tendencies.

"I know Kuldeep pretty well. He likes to take the DRS. So, yeah, I was just trying a little bit of luck here."

He further explained how he anticipated Kuldeep's reaction in borderline situations.

"I was just trying to walk there. I know Kuldeep likes to take the DRS as soon as there is a 50-50 chance. So, I was trying my luck there. It turned out in our favour."

Rohit Sharma Contributes Valuable Runs for Mumbai

Apart from the clever DRS moment, Rohit also made a useful contribution with the bat. He scored 35 runs after Mumbai Indians were asked to bat first.

Mumbai, however, endured an early setback after losing Ryan Rickelton and Tilak Varma inside the powerplay, both dismissed by Mukesh Kumar.

Rohit then stitched a stabilising partnership with stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav, helping the side recover before falling shortly after the strategic timeout.

Mumbai Indians eventually finished with 162/6, posting a competitive total despite early setbacks.

While IPL matches are often remembered for big sixes and spectacular wickets, moments like these underline the importance of experience and game awareness.

Rohit Sharma's clever manipulation of the situation not only saved his wicket but also forced Delhi Capitals to burn a review - a small but significant tactical win that showcased why he remains one of the sharpest minds in the game.