A video circulating on social media sparked a flurry of speculation following the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Mumbai and Sikkim in Jaipur. The moment in question occurred during the post-match handshakes, leading many fans to believe a Sikkim player touched Rohit Sharma's feet as a sign of respect. However, a closer examination of the footage reveals a less dramatic, but equally human, explanation.
The incident took place at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium after Mumbai's comfortable victory over Sikkim. As players from both teams lined up for the customary handshakes, a Sikkim player approached Rohit Sharma. It was then that the player's cap slipped from his grasp and fell to the ground. In the viral video, the angle and timing of the movement created an illusion, leading viewers to assume the player was bowing to touch Sharma's feet. In reality, the player was simply picking up his fallen cap before completing the handshake.
Despite the misunderstanding, the moment underscores the immense admiration and attention Rohit Sharma commands, even in domestic cricket. Sharma was making his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after seven years, following a directive from the BCCI requiring players to participate in domestic cricket. His appearance drew a large crowd to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, with fans chanting "Mumbaicha Raja, Rohit Sharma!" as he fielded near the boundary line.
Sharma didn't disappoint his fans, scoring a blistering 155 off 94 balls against Sikkim. His innings included 18 fours and nine sixes, as Mumbai chased down Sikkim's total of 236 with ease. This was Sharma's highest score for Mumbai in List A cricket and his first century in domestic List A cricket since debuting in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2008.
Sikkim, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, managed to score 236 for seven in their 50 overs. Ashish Thapa, the wicketkeeper-batter, top-scored with 79 off 84 balls. In response, Sharma's incredible performance ensured Mumbai reached the target in just 30.3 overs, winning by eight wickets.
The viral video, regardless of its misinterpretation, highlights Sharma's influence and popularity. Even a seemingly small interaction involving him becomes a subject of widespread discussion and analysis. For Leeyong Lepcha, the 34-year-old offspinner and captain of Sikkim, the match against Mumbai was the biggest he has ever played. "It is not every day that we get the opportunity to go up against a player of Rohit Sharma's stature," Lepcha said.
While the Sikkim player's gesture was not an act of reverence, it was a reminder of the respect Sharma commands in the cricketing world. His return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy, marked by a stunning century, has undoubtedly energized his fans and added excitement to the domestic tournament.
