Rohit Sharma, the current captain of the Indian cricket team, has emphasized that leading the national side is a privilege that must be earned through hard work and commitment. Drawing parallels with former captains MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, Rohit highlighted the importance of understanding the weight of responsibility that comes with the role.
Speaking to Star Sports, Rohit clarified his decision to sit out of the Sydney Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, attributing it solely to his poor form and confirming he has no intentions of retiring from Test cricket. He also addressed the question of who among the younger players might step into the leadership role in the future.
“Youngsters Must Prove Their Mettle”
When asked about the readiness of the next generation to lead India in Test cricket, Rohit responded cautiously. “It’s difficult to say who is ready right now,” he said. “There are many talented players, but I want them to first understand the significance of this position. Being the captain of India is a huge responsibility, and it’s not something that should be handed over easily. They need to earn it by playing hard-fought cricket over the years.”
Rohit used his own journey as an example, noting that neither he nor his predecessors, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, had the captaincy handed to them without merit. “None of us received it on a silver platter. Everyone had to work hard, prove themselves, and earn the trust of the team and management,” he remarked.
The Pressure and Honour of Leading India
Rohit stressed that while the role of captain is an honour, it comes with immense pressure. “Being India’s captain means shouldering the responsibility of our cricketing legacy. It’s a privilege, but it’s not easy. That’s why it’s important for players to prove themselves over time before stepping into this role,” he added.
Praise for Jasprit Bumrah’s Leadership
Rohit reserved special praise for Jasprit Bumrah, commending his leadership qualities and ability to lead by example. “Bumrah has shown great understanding of the game and leads from the front with his performances. I’ve been watching him since 2013, and his evolution has been remarkable. His bowling speaks volumes, and his ability to put the team first is what makes him a great leader,” Rohit said.
Focus on Team Goals, Not Future Speculation
Rohit dismissed any speculation about his long-term future in Test cricket, reiterating his focus on immediate goals. “When I captain, my priority is always the present. Decisions are made keeping the team’s best interests in mind. Right now, the focus is on retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and performing well as a unit,” he explained.
Rohit’s comments underline the values of perseverance, hard work, and responsibility required to lead Indian cricket, setting a benchmark for the next generation to follow.
