NEW DELHI: Rohit Sharma’s return to domestic cricket was meant to be low-key — a training session, some quiet preparation and a walk back to the dressing room. Instead, his first Vijay Hazare Trophy outing in Jaipur delivered a reminder of the frenzy that still follows one of India’s biggest sporting icons.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!On Tuesday, a video surfaced showing Rohit being hounded by fans for selfies after finishing his net session at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.As the Mumbai batter walked towards the dressing-room corridor, a group of supporters crowded around him, jostling for space and attempting to get close for photographs. The situation escalated when one fan behaved inappropriately and nearly breached the players’ restricted area, forcing security personnel to intervene.
Rohit appeared visibly irritated but chose not to engage with the crowd.He continued walking as officials quickly moved in, ushering fans away from the corridor and shutting the passage doors to prevent further intrusion. The clip soon went viral, sparking fresh debate around fan entitlement and the thin line between admiration and intrusion.The episode comes at a time when star appearances in domestic cricket are drawing unusual attention. Rohit is in Jaipur as Mumbai begin their Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign in Elite Group C, starting with matches against Sikkim on December 24 and Uttarakhand on December 26. His presence alone has transformed a typically low-profile domestic fixture into a high-security event.WATCH:Organizers in Jaipur have already anticipated a sharp spike in attendance, with thousands expected to turn up largely to watch Rohit in action.With the former Indian captain now playing only one international format, his domestic outings are also being closely tracked as part of his preparation between international assignments.The Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA), mindful of recent crowd-control challenges at the venue, has stepped up security arrangements. “We have arranged comprehensive police security as well as private bouncers. I have personally met the Additional SP (South), who has assured full support,” ad hoc convener Deendayal Kumawat said. “All arrangements are firmly in place, as seen during the practice session.”The RCA has also readied the stadium facilities, cleaning the premises and planning to open the North and East stands initially, with more sections available if required.
