Virat Kohli’s tenure as Test captain marked a shift in Indian cricket, with “intent” becoming the driving force. The team’s potent pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, and Mohammed Shami, became a formidable weapon.
When Rohit Sharma took over the reins, he brought a subtle but significant change. “For me, aggression is all about your actions, not the reactions,” he emphasized. Rohit’s approach is characterized by a relentless pursuit of victory, coupled with a clear communication of his gameplan to his teammates.
Rohit’s leadership style was evident in India’s recent Test victory over Bangladesh in Kanpur. The team’s ability to push the game forward at all times, even against the clock, showcased his influence. His informal and colloquial language creates a sense of camaraderie on the field, fostering a “big brother” vibe.
Despite his reputation as the “Hitman” of Indian cricket, Rohit is far from being a larger-than-life superstar. His leadership extends beyond his own performances. In the absence of key players during the Gabba heist in 2021 and the five-Test series against England earlier this year, Rohit handed Test caps to four players who responded with exceptional performances.
Rohit’s ability to inspire his team is crucial to India’s recent dominance in limited-overs cricket. His belief in uninhibited cricket has been a cornerstone of their success in the ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup.
Rohit’s leadership style is characterized by a calm and calculated approach. “When you are playing at such a high level, you have to be calm to think wisely,” he stated. “I use my experience and knowledge to trust myself.”
As Rohit approaches the twilight of his career, he remains focused on leading India to further glory. His unwavering determination and ability to inspire his teammates will undoubtedly guide them towards another exciting dash to the finish line.
