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Tue Mar 25 13:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Rohit Sharma Urged to Rethink Aggressive Approach After IPL Duck
**Mumbai, India** – Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma is facing calls to modify his aggressive batting style after a disastrous start to the IPL season. The veteran opener was dismissed for a four-ball duck in MI’s opening match against Chennai Super Kings, prompting criticism and advice from cricketing legends.
Sharma’s recent aggressive approach, successful for the national team, backfired in Sunday’s game. His IPL performance in recent seasons has been below his usual standards, with his last 450+ run season dating back to 2016. Last year, he scored only 417 runs at an average of 32.08.
1983 World Cup winner Krishnamachari Srikkanth suggested Sharma adopt a more measured approach, advising him to play a few balls before unleashing his power hitting. “He just has to get into the middle…knock a few shots and then go for it,” Srikkanth stated on Star Sports.
Shane Watson, former Australia all-rounder, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of assessing the pitch before playing aggressive shots. He noted that Sharma’s immediate attempt to smash the ball on Sunday’s drier wicket led to his quick dismissal. Watson also pointed out Sharma’s historical struggles against left-arm swing bowling, a weakness exploited by Khaleel Ahmed in the match. He urged Sharma to find a balance between aggressive intent and careful shot selection.
With Mumbai Indians finishing bottom of the table last season, the team desperately needs its openers to perform consistently. Sharma’s early struggles raise concerns about MI’s prospects for the remainder of the tournament.