As the Rohit Sharma-led team India is all set to lock their horns with New Zealand in the first T20I against New Zealand today, the newly-appointed head coach Rahul Dravid heaped praises on Rohit Sharma for his substantial contribution towards the success of Indian cricket over the years.
Rahul Dravid’s comments came during a virtual press conference on the eve of the T20 series opener between India and New Zealand.
Dravid recalled the time when Rohit Sharma made his debut in international cricket under his captaincy back in 2007, Rahul had an inkling that the Mumbai skipper was a special talent. The legendary cricketer further commended the right-hander for carrying the legacy of team India, as well as Mumbai cricket in an exemplary fashion. He said:
“We all knew that Rohit was going to be special. We could just see that this was a very very special talent. Working with him after so many years, is something that I never thought about or I never envisaged. It’s just lovely to see the way Rohit has grown as a leader and as a person over the last 14 years or so. He’s truly been someone who has been an absolute credit to the game and the country.”
He added:
“From what he’s achieved, both as a player and his success as a leader for Mumbai Indians, it has been phenomenal as well. Having to carry the legacy of Mumbai cricket and Indian cricket forward is not an easy one, and he has done it with a lot of grace and class.”
Meanwhile, Team India and New Zealand will play a three-match T20I series, starting with the first game on Wednesday. Following this, both the countries will also play two Tests in Kanpur and Mumbai, respectively.
Rohit Sharma, who will be captaining the T20I side while KL Rahul will be his deputy. Virat Kohli, who will miss the first Test at the Green Park Stadium, has been rested for the T20I series, alongwith several other key players
