Mumbai, June 7: Rohit Sharma has backed new India T20I captain Shreyas Iyer after his match-winning knock in the T20 Mumbai League. Iyer scored 61 off
36 balls for SOBO Mumbai Falcons in a five-wicket win over Triumph Knights Mumbai North East at Wankhede Stadium.
The Nuvama Private T20 Mumbai League 2026 clash drew 21,708 fans. The game featured Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav. Rohit, the Face of the League, said Mumbai cricket prepares players for leadership. He said nothing comes easy in the city's demanding cricket structure.
Rohit explained that captaincy must be earned in Mumbai cricket. He said players need to gain respect from those around them. He added that this quality is present in many local leaders. He pointed to how Mumbai conditions shape players for national roles.
Rohit cited Suryakumar Yadav's India debut at 31 as proof. He said Surya never gave up and stayed ready. He said Surya grabbed his India chance with both hands. He also praised Iyer's franchise captaincy record in Mumbai in recent seasons.
Mumbai league seen as key platform for young talent
Rohit said the T20 Mumbai League is an important platform. He said it helps the next generation show their skills. He called it the perfect stage for many local players. He recalled last year's edition and strong spectator interest across matches.
He said the event is a huge chance for non-IPL players. He added that many team owners are likely watching closely. He said participants will try to make the most of that stage. He described the league as vital for Mumbai's cricket ecosystem.
Organisers praised as men's and women's events run together
Rohit praised Mumbai Cricket Association President Ajinkya Naik and his team. He said they created a wonderful platform without compromise. He noted the challenge of hosting the league right after the IPL. He also appreciated the efforts of the Wankhede groundsmen.
The men's and women's leagues are running simultaneously at Wankhede. The finals are scheduled for June 13. All matches are being broadcast live on JioHotstar. Coverage also runs on the Star Sports Network. Rohit said people involved in the league are quite passionate.
