Mumbai: A sea of fans, chaos, and one heartfelt plea — “Usko lagna nahi chahiye.” That’s what former India cricketer Abhishek Nayar was heard saying repeatedly as he shielded Rohit Sharma from an overwhelming crowd outside Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park on Friday evening.

Nayar’s protective gesture goes viral

The viral clip, now circulating widely on social media, captures the frenzy surrounding one of Indian cricket’s most beloved stars. As Rohit stepped out after an intense two-hour practice session, hundreds of fans surged toward the exit to catch a glimpse of the former India captain.

Amid the commotion, Nayar — Rohit’s longtime friend, confidant, and former Mumbai teammate — positioned himself between the crowd and the cricketer, urging fans to stay calm.

“Koi dhakka mat dena, hum sab fans hain, lekin usko lagna nahi chahiye,” Nayar can be heard pleading in the video as security personnel quickly formed a human corridor for Rohit’s safe passage to his car.

The moment underlined not only the intensity of Indian cricket fandom but also the quiet loyalty of those who stand beside the players away from the limelight.

Fans erupt as Rohit trains at Shivaji Park

Rohit, who was recently replaced by Shubman Gill as India’s ODI captain, has been training rigorously for the upcoming tour of Australia, starting 19 October in Perth. The 38-year-old batter has been practising daily with Nayar at Shivaji Park — a symbolic return to his cricketing roots in Mumbai.

Videos from the training sessions show Rohit focusing on fitness and technique, batting with renewed intensity and precision. Observers have noted his leaner frame and sharper movements, suggesting a renewed hunger ahead of the crucial overseas tour.

Symbolism and sentiment behind the clip

The timing of this video makes it especially poignant. Coming just weeks after the captaincy transition, the scenes at Shivaji Park reflect that Rohit’s bond with fans remains as strong as ever.

Even without the ODI captaincy, the admiration for the Mumbai batsman seems to have deepened. The passion with which the crowd thronged to see him is proof that in Indian cricket, leadership roles may change, but fan loyalty remains unwavering.

The footage also highlights the enduring camaraderie between Rohit and Nayar, who has played a key role in guiding several Mumbai and national cricketers. His instinctive move to protect Rohit from the crowd’s surge has earned widespread praise online.

A return to roots and resolve

For Rohit, Shivaji Park is more than just a training ground — it’s where his cricketing journey began. His decision to return there for pre-tour training has been viewed as a statement of humility and determination.

As fans gathered outside the park, chanting his name and waving flags, the atmosphere was both electric and emotional. For many, it was a reminder of how deeply intertwined Mumbai’s cricket culture is with its local heroes.

With the Australia tour approaching, Rohit’s preparations have become a matter of national discussion. The viral clip — with Nayar’s voice echoing through the chaos — offers a glimpse into the pressures and passion surrounding one of India’s greatest modern cricketers.

Conclusion

The Shivaji Park incident, though brief, symbolised much more than a celebrity moment. It showcased the devotion of Indian fans, the humility of a champion returning to his roots, and the friendship of two cricketers bound by loyalty and mutual respect.

Even amid the madness, one line summed up the evening — “Usko lagna nahi chahiye.” A simple plea that revealed the humanity behind the hero worship.