In the realm of cricket, where every move is scrutinized and every decision debated, Rohit Sharma has carved out a niche for himself not just as a batsman but as a captain whose decisions often surprise even the seasoned coaches around him. Vikram Rathour, India’s batting coach, recently shared insights into how Rohit Sharma’s approach has continually taken him by surprise, blending strategic foresight with an almost intuitive understanding of the game.
Rohit Sharma’s journey as captain has been marked by moments where his decisions on the field have left Rathour and others in the coaching staff momentarily bewildered, only for those decisions to later reveal themselves as masterstrokes. One such instance Rathour recalls was during a critical match where the decision to bat or bowl first seemed forgotten by Rohit at the toss, yet his game plan was meticulously laid out, showcasing his focus on strategy over the toss’s outcome.
“He might forget whether he has decided to bat or bowl at the toss, or his phone and iPad in the team bus but he never forgets his gameplan. He is very good at it and is a very shrewd tactician, former team india batting coach vikram rathour said.
“His first quality is that as a batsman, he is a phenomenal player. I think he is someone who understands his game really well. He always have a clear game plan,” said Rathour.
This aspect of Rohit’s leadership was further highlighted during the ICC World Cup 2023, where his aggressive approach at the top of the order set the tone for India’s campaign. His quickfire 40 off 24 balls against South Africa not only disrupted the opposition’s rhythm but also paved the way for a monumental victory. Rathour praised this approach, noting how Rohit’s batting not only scores runs but also sets up the innings for others, a strategy that has become a hallmark of his captaincy.
“He spends a lot of time on the team’s strategy. He is part of the bowlers’ meeting, batters meeting. He wants to sit with the bowlers and batters to try and understand what they are thinking. He invests a lot of time with the players.”
The emotional depth of Rohit Sharma was another surprise for many, including his teammates and coaches. Virat Kohli, in a post-match interview, shared how Rohit’s emotional display after a match was something he had rarely seen in their 15-year partnership, underscoring Rohit’s usually composed demeanor. This emotional connection with the game and his team was also evident in his interactions with Rahul Dravid, where a phone call from Rohit Sharma convinced Dravid to continue as coach, leading to India’s T20 World Cup victory.
“Kisi captain ko maine team meetings ya strategy mey itna involve hote nahi dekha (I have never seen a captain, who is so invested in team meetings and strategies).
Rohit’s understanding of his team’s dynamics has been another area of surprise. Ravi Ashwin remarked on Rohit’s ability to know each player personally, tailoring his leadership to individual needs, which Ashwin described as an “advanced level of leadership.” This personal touch was not just about strategy but about building a team culture where every player felt understood and valued.
“Even as a leader, you will have to lead from the front. You have to perform to set the example. And since he has become the captain he has always led by example.”
The partnership between Rohit and Jadeja during a test match, where they turned a precarious 33/3 into a formidable score, was another testament to Rohit’s strategic acumen. His ability to adapt, lead from the front, and inspire confidence in his teammates has been a recurring theme, surprising even those who have seen him grow through the ranks.
In essence, Rohit Sharma’s tenure as captain has been filled with moments where his decisions, initially surprising, have later been celebrated for their brilliance. His approach to leadership, combining cricketing strategy with emotional intelligence, has not only won matches but also the hearts of his team and fans, making him a captain whose surprises are eagerly awaited by all in the cricketing fraternity.