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Xtra Time Web Desk: The tension seems unabated in the dressing room of the Mumbai Indians. The heat of dissatisfaction regarding the removal of Indian captain Rohit Sharma from captaincy still seems to be burning. Though there is a possibility of cooling down with the image of Hardik Pandya being aligned as the new captain, the complexity hasn't diminished. This time, the absence of the old leader of Mumbai in the preparation match has sparked new debates. Already, several questions have arisen.

In 2013, Rohit Sharma became the captain of the Mumbai Indians. Under his leadership, the team won the IPL trophy five times. On the other hand, Hardik Pandya wore the blue jersey of Mumbai in 2015. After joining the Gujarat Titans in 2021, he won the IPL trophy. This year, after returning to the Mumbai team, Rohit was removed from captaincy. Many believe that the decision has disrupted the unity of the team. Cricket enthusiasts will also keep an eye on the relationship between Rohit and Hardik, whether it affects Mumbai's performance.

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The absence of Rohit in the preparation match has sparked fresh debates. Although it has been stated from Mumbai's side, "Rohit Sharma joined the team on Monday. He is undergoing special preparations to increase strength. He even batted in the nets. Rohit did not participate in the preparation match for the strain of those preparations in the last three days."

Questions were also raised about Hardik taking over the leadership instead of Rohit. However, he assured that there would be no problem with Rohit's presence in the team. He said, "Rohit was busy playing for India. We haven't seen each other much in the last few months. We will see each other when the IPL starts. Then we will talk." Along with that, he added, "We are professional players. I have also succeeded in the Indian team under his leadership for most of my career. So, there will be no problem playing together. Whenever I need help, I will seek it from him."

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Mumbai Indians are starting their IPL against Hardik's former team, the Gujarat Titans. The match will be held at Narendra Modi Stadium in Gujarat on March 24th. The impact of Rohit and Hardik's relationship on Mumbai's performance will also be observed.