New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) Former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has been honored with the Padma Shri award, joining a prestigious list of eight other sports personalities recognized during the 2026 Padma Awards ceremony. This esteemed group includes five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri recipients.

President Droupadi Murmu approved the granting of 131 Padma Awards for 2026, which includes two duo awards, each considered as a single honor.

Rohit’s recognition comes in the wake of a transformative leadership phase in Indian men’s cricket. Under his captaincy, India secured two ICC titles, clinching the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025.

From the bustling streets of Borivali to the heights of international cricket, Rohit Sharma’s story embodies patience, hard work, and exceptional talent. Born in 1987 in Bansod, Nagpur, he dedicated his early years to perfecting his skills in local parks and school grounds, where his inherent timing and graceful stroke play first captivated observers.

Rohit’s ascent was not immediate. After showcasing his talent on Mumbai’s domestic circuit and in India’s Under-19 team, he made his ODI debut in 2007. Initial performances were inconsistent, yet his skill was evident. It was in limited-overs cricket that Rohit truly made his mark, impressing with his effortless strokeplay, tactical insight, and remarkable ability to excel in high-pressure situations.

Records came swiftly. Rohit became the first player ever to score three double centuries in ODIs, including a record-setting 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014, a milestone that solidified his status among cricket’s modern legends. In T20s, he led India to their second World Cup triumph in 2024, lauded for his calm leadership and strategic brilliance.

At 38, Rohit’s career showcases continuous growth. Transitioning from a struggling middle-order player to one of the most formidable openers and a revered captain, he has consistently evolved, motivating a generation of emerging cricketers through his disciplined approach and reliability.

As India prepares for the upcoming ODI tournament, Rohit, who now exclusively plays the 50-over format, remains crucial to the team's aspirations, particularly with the ODI World Cup 2027 approaching, symbolizing talent nurtured by perseverance and serving as a testament to what unwavering dedication can achieve on cricket’s grandest stage.