MI vs DC Turns Into Rohit Sharma Fest! Wankhede Crowd Wears Blue to Honour Cricketer’s Test Retirement

Add as a preferred source on Google

Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement turned the MI vs DC clash at Wankhede into more than just a cricket match. Mumbai Indians fans pulled out all the stops to honour Sharma’s red-ball career with an electrifying show of affection on Wednesday, 21 May.

The stadium was dotted with special blue jerseys stamped with the words “Mumbai Cha Raja”, as well as masks printed with Sharma’s smiling face. These weren’t just for show; they were handed out to fans before the match began, setting the tone for a heartfelt send-off.

The choice of blue over the traditional white was intentional, made to avoid clashing with the white ball used in IPL games. Sharma, who retired from Tests on 7 May, made his return to competitive cricket and featured in the must-win game against Delhi Capitals.

A Grand Gesture for Sharma

The tribute wasn't spontaneous; it was planned to perfection. The blue jerseys, designed especially for the occasion, symbolised Sharma’s long-standing connection with Mumbai and his loyal fan base. Wankhede roared with chants, posters, and cheers, showing that for many, Sharma is more than just a cricketer; he's a local icon.

The Return of Rohit to Action

Sharma was back in action for the first time since stepping away from red-ball cricket. Mumbai Indians included him in their playing XI, making just one change, Mitchell Santner replacing Corbin Bosch. The match wasn’t just significant for points; it was emotionally charged as fans watched Sharma return to the field after bidding farewell to Tests.

Rohit Sharma Stand and Past Honours

Just a week before the match, Sharma was at Wankhede for another proud moment, the inauguration of the 'Rohit Sharma Stand'. The Mumbai Cricket Association honoured him for his immense contribution to Indian cricket, particularly in Tests and limited-overs formats. The event came after his triumphant run as India’s captain in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

This emotional tribute echoed an earlier one planned for Virat Kohli by Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans. Supporters turned up in whites to honour Kohli’s Test career at the RCB vs KKR match on 17 May, but heavy rains left fans disappointed as the match was abandoned.

What’s Next for Rohit Sharma and Indian Cricket?

Although Rohit Sharma has hung up his boots in the Test format, he remains active in IPL and ODIs. At 38, he ends his Test journey with 4,301 runs from 67 matches and a captaincy stint that included 24 Tests between 2022 and 2024.

With both Sharma and Virat Kohli stepping away from red-ball duties, India prepares to enter a new era. The five-Test series against England, starting 20 June, will open a fresh chapter in the World Test Championship. The new captain and squad will be revealed on 24 May.