Ashwin explains difference in captaincy of Dhoni, Kohli, and Rohit
What's the story
Indian cricket team's ace off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, has shared his insights on the contrasting leadership styles of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma.
Having played under all three captains during significant periods in Indian cricket history, Ashwin is uniquely positioned to comment on their approaches.
He particularly emphasized that Rohit's approach to captaincy is more tactical than that of either Dhoni or Kohli.
Tactical approach
Ashwin praises Rohit's tactical acumen
Ashwin, in an interview with Vimal Kumar, praised Rohit's ability to maintain a light-hearted team environment and his balanced approach.
He stated, "He always keeps the environment of the team light. He makes an effort to keep it light."
Ashwin further highlighted that while Dhoni and Kohli were also tactically adept, Rohit focuses more on this aspect of leadership.
This focus on tactics is seen as a distinguishing feature of Rohit's captaincy style.
Match preparation
Rohit's preparation strategy revealed by Ashwin
Ashwin also revealed that Rohit collaborates with the Indian cricket team's analytics team to devise a comprehensive strategy ahead of any major match or series. This includes specific plans for individual players.
"If there is any big match or series coming up, Rohit sits with the analytics team and coach and prepares for it," said Ashwin.
He further praised Rohit's unwavering support for his chosen players in the XI, stating that he fully backs them.
Achievements
Rohit's successful stint as Indian cricket team captain
Rohit completely took over the reins of India's T20I side after Kohli stepped down from the role in 2021.
Rohit was later named India's Test and ODI skipper as well.
His leadership has been marked by significant achievements, including an ICC T20 World Cup victory earlier this year.
Under his captaincy, India also reached the 2021-23 ICC World Test Championship and ODI World Cup finals.
IPL speculation
Uncertainty surrounds Rohit's IPL future
With 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction approaching, there is growing speculation about Rohit potentially leaving Mumbai Indians.
However, Lucknow Super Giants's fielding coach Jonty Rhodes has not confirmed these rumors.
Ahead of IPL 2024, Hardik Pandya replaced Rohit as MI's captain after being traded in from Gujarat Titans.
For now, the latter is set to lead Team India in the impending two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19.