Allow Emerging Players to Compete for Future Captaincy of India: Rohit Sharma

Sydney, Jan 4 (NationPress) Rohit Sharma, the regular captain of India, recently decided to sit out of the ongoing Test match in Sydney due to his disappointing performance. He expressed that the younger members of the team must put in the effort to earn their chance to lead in the future.

Rohit opted out of the Sydney Test after scoring just 3, 6, 10, 3, and 9 in the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. While he is absent, Jasprit Bumrah has taken over the captaincy, but concerns have arisen as he left the field during the second session of Day 2 and was seen heading to the hospital for scans with support staff.

“It’s challenging to comment on this. There are several talented young players, but I want them to grasp the significance of cricket and the weight of this responsibility. They are newcomers, and while they should be entrusted with responsibilities, they need to earn it. They should engage in tough cricket for the coming years to truly deserve it,” remarked Rohit.

“I am here now, Bumrah is here, Virat Kohli was here before him, and MS Dhoni held the position before Kohli. Everyone has worked hard for it. No one has received it on a platter, and it should not be handed out like that. They need to put in the effort,” he added.

“There’s immense talent among the boys. However, I must emphasize that becoming the captain of India is no easy feat. There’s pressure involved, but it’s an incredible privilege. Our history and the way we play cricket carry a significant responsibility. So, they must earn it,” Rohit stated during a conversation with Star Sports broadcasters during the lunch interval.

Discussing Bumrah's emergence as India’s premier fast bowler and acting captain, Rohit elaborated, “He possesses a wealth of game knowledge. The way he exemplifies his bowling skills serves as an inspiration for others. He has that class, understands the game, and consistently prioritizes the team.”

“I’ve been observing him for over 11 years. I first saw him in 2013. His career trajectory has been impressive. He has significantly evolved in his game and mindset. The way he bowls is being watched globally. He has indeed progressed remarkably,” Rohit added.

When asked what his experience as India’s captain has taught him about leadership, Rohit explained, “As a leader, you must accept that not every day will be favorable. Moreover, what you accomplish over three months cannot suddenly diminish. The ideas and mindset remain consistent – the captaincy I executed five, six, or eight months ago is still aligned with my current approach, ideology, and messaging.”

“However, when results don’t materialize, doubts may creep in, leading to thoughts of whether the current strategies are effective. We live in a country with a population of 140 crores, and we’re subject to judgment. That’s just the reality. Yet, the methods and philosophies I maintain regarding captaincy are ones I do not wish to alter,” he continued.

“No one approaches the game desiring to lose; everyone is focused on winning for the team. The crowd plays a significant role in this environment, and we need to silence their cheers – as few teams have come here and won two Test series.”

“While we acknowledge that winning this series is unlikely, we have a golden opportunity to draw it and prevent them from claiming victory. If we can achieve a positive outcome in our third visit here, that would be remarkable,” he concluded.