Rohit Sharma

Following India's 2024 T20 World Cup victory, Rohit Sharma's leadership faced significant challenges in subsequent series. In the ODI series against Sri Lanka, India lost the bilateral series for the first time in 27 years. The Indian batting lineup struggled against Sri Lanka's spinners, culminating in a 110-run defeat in the final match in Colombo, and losing the three-match series 2-0.

In the Test series against Bangladesh, India clinched a 2-0 series victory. Under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, the team demonstrated resilience and strategic acumen. However, the subsequent home Test series against New Zealand marked a downturn. India was whitewashed 3-0, a result that ended their 18-series unbeaten streak at home. This was the first time India had been whitewashed at home in a three-match Test series.

Amidst the celebrations and cricketing commitments, Rohit Sharma experienced a joyful moment in his personal life with the birth of his second child, a son. This heartwarming development saw him miss the opening Test of the series against Australia in Perth.T20 World Cup triumph

Rohit Sharma and his team were so close yet so far in the 2023 World Cup. After an undefeated run in the tournament, India failed to clear the final hurdle. As captain, Rohit Sharma led from the front, scoring consistently and breaking several records. His leadership was instrumental in guiding India to the finals, where they faced Australia. Despite a valiant effort and Rohit Sharma's crucial innings, India fell short, leaving the team and fans heartbroken.

However, redemption came swiftly in 2024 at the T20 World Cup. Rohit's captaincy was once again at the forefront as he led his team efficiently through tough matches, showcasing both strategic acumen and inspirational leadership. The climax was nothing short of dramatic as India faced South Africa in the final. Rohit Sharma played a captain's knock, setting up a challenging total for the opposition. His bowlers then delivered under pressure, securing a thrilling victory and India's second T20 World Cup title.

Rohit Sharma also chose to leave on a high as he announced his retirement from T20Is to make way for the younger crop to take over.

Early days

Rohit Sharma, nicknamed Hitman, wasn't always destined for greatness. Raised in Mumbai by his grandparents, his cricketing journey began at a summer camp. Impressing coach Dinesh Lad, he switched schools and honed his skills, initially as an off-spinner before his batting prowess shone through.

His talent blossomed in domestic cricket, with centuries in school competitions and a List-A debut for West Zone in 2006. An unbeaten 142 against North Zone propelled him into the spotlight, followed by impressive performances for India A and Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy.

Just a year after his domestic debut, Rohit Sharma earned his India call-up. A last-minute replacement for Yuvraj Singh in the 2007 T20 World Cup, he grabbed his opportunity with a fifty against South Africa, announcing his arrival on the global stage.

The Indian Premier League became his next proving ground. After two seasons with the Deccan Chargers, he joined Mumbai Indians in 2011. In 2013, captaincy unlocked his leadership potential, leading Mumbai to their first IPL title. Rohit Sharma went on to become the most successful captain in the league, guiding Mumbai to five championships.

Despite early promise, Rohit Sharma endured a period of inconsistency, missing the 2011 World Cup. However, his IPL exploits caught the eye, leading to a recall. A crucial decision by MS Dhoni to promote him as opener in 2013 proved transformative.

Rohit Sharma formed a lethal partnership with Shikhar Dhawan, becoming a dominant force in white-ball cricket. He helped India clinch the 2013 Champions Trophy and etched his name in history by smashing three ODI double centuries, including the highest individual score of 264 against Sri Lanka.Challenge of Test cricket

Part of India's World Cup squads in 2015 and 2019, Rohit Sharma reached new heights in 2019, topping the scoring charts with five centuries. His elegance and power became synonymous with white-ball dominance. However, Test cricket remained a challenge. After a promising debut in 2013 with a century, he struggled for consistency, often failing to replicate his ODI form outside the subcontinent.

His impressive performances on tours to Australia and South Africa in 2020-21 finally established him as a reliable Test opener. This resurgence, coupled with his leadership qualities, led to him being appointed India's captain across all formats after Virat Kohli stepped down.

Rohit's journey is a testament to talent, perseverance and adaptability. As captain, he faces the challenge of leading India to new heights in all formats, building upon his legacy as a batsman and leader more importantly a global cricketing icon.

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