NEW DELHI: Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar has heaped praise on Rohit Sharma, the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup-winning captain, describing him as a “people’s captain,” akin to the revered MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev. Gavaskar highlighted Rohit’s leadership qualities and his ability to connect with both his team and the broader cricketing community.
Rohit has had a distinguished career, being part of India’s victorious squads in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He also led the team to second-place finishes in the 2023 World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup. However, his crowning achievement came last month when India clinched the T20 World Cup by defeating South Africa by seven runs at Kensington Oval.
Reflecting on his career, Rohit called the 2024 T20 World Cup victory—achieved with India remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament—his greatest playing moment. He announced his retirement from Twenty20 international cricket shortly after the win.
“Rohit Sharma joins the ranks of cricketing giants Kapil Dev and Dhoni in leading India to a World Cup trophy. Like them, Rohit is also a people’s captain,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for mid-day on Sunday, as per IANS. “He is well-liked, not only by his team members but by the entire Indian cricketing community. Fans love his laconic style of leadership, and tactically, he is as sharp as the best in the game. Some of his moves may surprise you, but they often turn out to be exactly what the team needed.”
During the tournament, Rohit scored 257 runs at a strike rate of 156.70, providing India with crucial early runs. His fifties against Australia and England were particularly significant. “He led from the front, showing a complete disregard for personal milestones and instead focused on giving the team a strong start every time. India is blessed to have him as their captain,” Gavaskar added.
Gavaskar also acknowledged the contributions of coach Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma in steering India to this elusive trophy. “While the players naturally took all the limelight, the support staff, led by the one and only Rahul Dravid, also had a massive role to play in the victory. The combination of the two Rs was terrific—totally team-oriented, completely selfless, and prepared to do anything and everything for Team India,” Gavaskar concluded.
