In the wake of Virat Kohli’s resignation as India’s cricket captain, Rohit Sharma stated Wednesday that he would be pleased to help coach the country’s next generation of cricketers.
In the wake of Virat Kohli’s resignation as India’s cricket captain, Rohit Sharma stated Wednesday that he would be pleased to help coach the country’s next generation of cricketers. Despite being chosen Test captain on Saturday (he was already the white-ball skipper), pundits believe his reign to be short-lived because he will turn 35 in April. Cricket India has identified three young players, all in their early 20s, who may potentially replace him: Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant are the most likely prospects. “I won’t have that big of a role in teaching them everything, because they are all adult cricketers, but someone needs to be around them to advise and guide them in difficult times and (I am) more than happy to do that,” Rohit said in his first press conference after taking over the Test position.
“It’s only logical that we’d follow in the footsteps of those who came before us. While Bumrah, KL, and Pant have a significant impact on India’s success, they are also viewed as leaders.”
Bumrah, 28, has been named vice-captain for India’s upcoming series of three Twenty20s and two Tests against Sri Lanka, which begins Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium.
There was still no sign of KL Rahul, the 29-year-old who led the ODI team to victory in South Africa earlier this year.
As a wicketkeeper-batsman in the Indian Premier League for Delhi Capitals, 24-year-old Rishabh Pant has been tipped by many experts, including batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, to become the team’s next skipper.
Another thing Rohit stressed was the importance of not placing undue stress on these men. At this point, “they are really important to us, and we just want them to enjoy their game, come out freely, and execute their (abilities).”
“Wow, what a brain!”
Rohit stated that Bumrah’s promotion to the role of deputy captain in T20 and Tests would only enhance his potential as a lethal fast bowler, who has already taken 113 wickets in Tests since his 2018 debut.
“It doesn’t really matter if the vice-captain is a batsman or a bowler; what matters is the individual’s mind. In addition, I believe that Jasprit Bumrah possesses an excellent game sense “Rohit made the comment.
“It’s a fantastic time to assume leadership responsibilities, and this is the best way to do it. He’s clearly raised his level of play, and I have no doubt he will do so in the future. However, this will only serve to bolster his confidence and help him perform better on the field.”
In the ODI series against South Africa earlier this year, Bumrah was elected vice-captain for the first time.
