Karn Sharma Feels This Tactic was the Game-Changer Amid Rohit-Hardik Credit Debate

The MI spinner bagged three vital wickets, confirming that Rohit Sharma’s strategic call to change the ball in the 14th over turned the tide against DC.

April 15, 2025: Mumbai Indians found themselves staring at another defeat in IPL 2025 until a single tactical shift sparked a dramatic comeback against Delhi Capitals. With Karun Nair blazing away at 89 off 40 balls and DC cruising in their chase of 206, it was the introduction of a new ball in the 14th over — reportedly suggested by Rohit Sharma — that flipped the script.

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Karn Sharma, brought into the attack with the changed ball, picked up three match-turning wickets, including Tristan Stubbs and KL Rahul. In the post-match press conference, Karn acknowledged that the ball switch — made in consultation with Rohit Sharma, Paras Mhambrey, and Mahela Jayawardene — was the moment MI wrested control.

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“The change of ball can be termed as the game-changing moment,” Karn admitted. “The old ball was wet due to dew. The new one gave Santner and me more grip and turn, which helped us pick crucial wickets.”

Under a new IPL rule, teams in night matches can request a fresh ball after the 10th over to mitigate dew. MI took advantage, and Karn spun a web around Delhi’s middle order, dismissing Porel, Stubbs, and Rahul to trigger a collapse.

Social media was quick to credit Rohit Sharma for masterminding the move from the dugout, while some experts insisted Hardik Pandya, as official captain, deserves the spotlight.

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Karn diplomatically stayed clear of the captaincy credit debate but emphasized KL Rahul’s wicket as the turning point:

“KL’s wicket was huge. He was in great form. After Karun Nair’s dismissal, we got a few wickets quickly, and Rahul’s wicket sealed our comeback.”

The drama surrounding leadership dynamics in the Mumbai Indians camp continues, but if one thing is clear, it’s that smart strategy — not just star power — won the game.

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