England's former captain Nasser Hussain showered high praise on India captain Rohit Sharma. Hussain credited Rohit for changing the team's mentality after years of disappointment in ICC knockouts. He described Rohit's leadership style as a strong but calming presence, like ‘an iron fist in a velvet glove’. This leadership provides the ideal balance between being aggressive and staying composed. Hussain pointed out the difference between Rohit and his predecessor, Virat Kohli. While Kohli thrived on aggression and relishing confrontations with opponents, Rohit strikes a perfect balance between calculated risk and controlled aggression.
"I have been a fan of Rohit for a very long time, as a batter, as a captain, and as a person. He seems to have a very calming influence. Whereas you had other captains, maybe like Virat, who wore their hearts on their sleeves, and they are incredibly passionate," Hussain said on Star Sports.
Rohit Sharma is frequently acknowledged for fostering a positive environment within the Indian dressing room. He supports players, instills confidence in them, yet isn't hesitant to offer constructive criticism on the field. During India's matches, Rohit's friendly admonishments to players like Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, and Yuzvendra Chahal have become a familiar sight. According to Hussain, Rohit Sharma's rapport with younger cricketers reflects the excellent atmosphere he has cultivated in the team's changing room.
"Rohit is like that iron fist in a velvet glove. You do not mess around with Rohit, but he is also a big brother who will put his arm around you and look after you," he added.
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Rohit Sharma has transformed himself into the leader of India's aggressive batting approach at the top order. This change came after India's disappointing exit from the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in 2022. Back then, India's cautious batting in high-pressure matches was heavily criticised. This new aggressive style was evident in the 2023 ODI World Cup as well. Rohit took it upon himself to give India flying starts during the powerplay overs. He finished the tournament as the second-highest run scorer (only behind Virat Kohli) with a mind-blowing strike rate of 125, the highest among batsmen with over 400 runs. Rohit has continued this aggressive approach in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Even though India didn't get ideal batting pitches in the group stage held in New York, Rohit found his rhythm once the tournament moved to the Caribbean for the Super Eights. His blistering 94 runs off just 41 balls completely dominated Australia. He maintained his attacking style even on a challenging pitch in Guyana during the semi-final against England. His knock of 57 runs off 39 balls was crucial in helping India set a competitive total of 171/7. With India facing South Africa in the final, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma to continue his explosive batting form. A strong performance from him could be the key to ending India's 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.
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