Dhawan Commends Rohit for His Leadership Maturity
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Synopsis
Shikhar Dhawan praises Rohit Sharma for his leadership maturity, highlighting his ability to handle pressure and maintain balance as a captain. Their long-standing friendship and teamwork have been pivotal in their cricketing journey.
Key Takeaways
- Rohit Sharma has matured as a captain.
- Dhawan emphasizes the importance of handling pressure.
- The bond between Rohit and his teammates is strong.
- Reflects on their long partnership since 2013.
- India is in the semifinals of the Champions Trophy.
Dubai, Feb 27 (NationPress) Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has praised his former opening partner and close friend Rohit Sharma, acknowledging him as a captain who has grown in his leadership role. Dhawan pointed out that the India skipper demonstrates an understanding of how to navigate pressure situations while skillfully balancing the moments of leniency and when to pull back.
In a special feature, “The Shikhar Dhawan Experience,” he discussed Rohit's connection with the team.
“With 12 years of experience from 2013 to 2025, Rohit has faced numerous challenges. He possesses the knowledge to handle pressure and to motivate his teammates. As a leader, he has matured; he understands when to be lenient and when to reign in the team. That balance is crucial, and Rohit's rapport with the players is remarkable. We're in a fantastic place,” Dhawan mentioned on Star Sports and JioHotstar.
Reflecting on their nine-year partnership, Dhawan recalled their inaugural innings together during the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, attributing the decision to promote Rohit as an opener to the then captain MS Dhoni.
“The decision about the opening pair was made just half a day before that match. I was also relatively new, focused on my own performance as I had made a comeback. However, MS Dhoni decided to have Rohit open. I thought if Rohit opens, we will have a good time batting together,” Dhawan shared.
“We had a fantastic start in that first match, reaching 100 without losing a wicket. Initially, we struggled to score 30-35 runs in the first 10 overs because of the seaming wicket. But I never anticipated that our partnership would be so significant, lasting a decade,” he added.
Dhawan also emphasized the friendship and camaraderie he shares with Rohit, stating, “There is mutual trust, and our communication is exceptional. Our bond is consistent both on and off the field. We have celebrated many victories together.”
“We have played as a unit. Reflecting on our journey, even before our time in the national team, I played with Rohit when he was just 16-17 years old during the Under-19 World Cup. Our friendship has been enduring since then,” he continued.
In the current Champions Trophy, Rohit’s India has secured a place in the semifinals with one group match remaining. They are set to face New Zealand in their final group match on Sunday in Dubai.
