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We have to accept our performance has been poor: Rohit Sharma

Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma hopes to repeat last year's turnaround this season too

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Rohit Sharma during a promotional event in Mumbai on Monday
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Rohit Sharma is enjoying leading the Mumbai Indians, more so with Ricky Ponting as head coach. The Indian opener is learning the tricks of the trade from the two-time World Cup winning captain, and is relishing that opportunity.

"Whenever I get the opportunity to captain a side, it is a learning process for me. Also, I am working alongside a great skipper like (Ricky) Ponting, who has led Australia to two World Cup wins. He has a lot of ideas, how to win big tournaments. The way he monitors the team, talks to the team is a great learning experience," Rohit said at a promotional event here on Monday.

The captain-coach combo, however, has failed to produce the results so far, with the Mumbai Indians winning only two games out of their seven. They were in a similar situation last season and yet made it to the play-offs. Rohit is hoping for lightning to strike twice.

"We have to accept our performance has been poor. Winning two matches out of seven, we know we have not performed well. But nothing is over yet. In 2014 we were in the same situation, losing earlier matches and then qualified for play-offs.

"That doesn't mean we will keep on losing initial matches in years to come. It has to be seen that a couple of boys were suddenly injured and one missing. It affects the combination of the team," he said.

Rohit has a point. Australia's Josh Hazlewood pulled out of the tournament, and New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson injured himself after playing a few games.

"Losing Hazlewood before the tournament and Anderson after he played a few games for us were big blows as they were in good form coming into the IPL. But this has given a chance to Colin Munro (of New Zealand), who appears to be a very promising cricketer, and Mitchell McClenaghan (New Zealand). Let's wait and watch," said Rohit.

After far as his personal batting is concerned, Rohit has been in good form this season, and said he doesn't find any reason to play innovative strokes.

"Why should I try and play innovative shots when I can clear the ground in front. As a batsman you should know your strengths and back them," he said.

'Honoured BCCI recommended me'
Rohit Sharma expressed delight at the BCCI's decision to recommend his name for the Arjuna Award. "Kushi to bahut hai (I feel very happy). I am honoured that BCCI has recommended my name. It felt very good when I heard it yesterday (Sunday)," he said.

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