India all-rounder Shardul Thakur’s return to the Mumbai Indians has brought him back to an environment that shaped his cricketing identity, and he believes Rohit Sharma remains a key reason behind that sense of belonging. Traded from Lucknow Super Giants for ₹2 crore ahead of IPL 2026, Shardul says reuniting with Rohit gives him a rare combination of comfort, clarity, and freedom—elements he felt strongly during the formative years of his career.

In a conversation with the Mumbai Indians media team, Shardul revealed that Rohit played a pivotal role in helping him adapt to the pressures of top-level cricket. As a young, quick learner finding his way, the captain encouraged him to express himself without fear, creating a bond that has only strengthened over time.

“Rohit made me comfortable. He allowed me to be free with him and express myself. We became comfortable with each other, and he played a major part in that,” Shardul Thakur said.

ALSO READ: Aiden Markram Calls Abhishek Sharma India’s ‘Priced Wicket’ Ahead Of T20I Series Opener

Shardul’s association with MI stretches back to 2010, when he entered the franchise as a young support bowler. That early exposure to a championship-calibre dressing room changed the trajectory of his career. From bowling in intense practice sessions to picking the brains of seasoned internationals, he found himself absorbing lessons that shaped his confidence and skill.

He recalls how MI’s senior players and coaches—Rahul Sanghvi and Paras Mhambrey in particular—guided him daily, while sharing space with Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh, Andrew Symonds, Munaf Patel, and Rohit left a profound impact. One of his fondest memories is watching Tendulkar bat at Wankhede from a passing local train—an image that still fuels his passion for the game.

ALSO READ: Mark Wood Ruled Out Of Ashes 2025-26: England Face Major Setback After Star Pacer’s Injury

After going unsold in the 2025 mega auction, Shardul revived his IPL journey with LSG before being traded to Mumbai—his third career trade. With 107 IPL wickets and two titles behind him, he now sees this homecoming as an opportunity to reignite his best version. The familiar blue jersey, the leadership of Rohit, and the comfort of a long-standing bond could be precisely what Shardul needs to script his next big chapter.