R Ashwin compares leadership styles of Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir
What's the story
Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his insights on the contrasting leadership styles of team captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir.
In a discussion with journalist Vimal Kumar, Ashwin highlighted that while both men have astute cricketing acumen, their approaches to leadership vary significantly.
This comes as India gears up for a busy 2024/25 cricket season under the new Rohit-Gambhir partnership.
Leadership contrast
Gambhir's intensity versus Sharma's light-hearted approach
Ashwin described Gambhir as an intense individual, stating, "Gauti bhai is very intense. There are similarities between Rohit and Gauti bhai's leadership, but Rohit keeps it light."
He emphasized that these differences should be recognized and respected.
The off-spinner also highlighted Gambhir's fervor for Indian cricket, comparing it to that of former head coach Rahul Dravid.
Leadership diversity
Ashwin advocates for diverse leadership styles
Ashwin further stated, "He (Gambhir) is very passionate about Indian cricket, just like Rahul (Dravid) bhai. Both are very passionate about Indian cricket, but we believe both are different."
He argued against the notion that all leaders should emulate a certain style, saying "people are like, 'MS Dhoni was cool, so everyone should be cool.' It isn't like that."
Career update
Ashwin's return to international cricket
Ashwin, who last played in the Tamil Nadu Premier League and has been absent from international cricket since March, is set to return for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh.
This series marks the continuation of India's World Test Championship cycle.
The team has 10 Tests remaining in this cycle, which will determine if they can maintain their top position and qualify for a third consecutive final.