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Rohit Sharma’s evolution as a cricketer, especially in Test cricket, has been nothing short of remarkable. Known predominantly for his prowess in white-ball cricket, the Mumbai batsman initially struggled to find his footing in the longest format. However, a key turning point in his career came in 2019 when then-captain Virat Kohli and former head coach Ravi Shastri decided to promote him to open the innings in Test matches. This bold decision breathed new life into Rohit’s red-ball career, which he has described as a “second birth” in Test cricket.
The Turning Point: Opening in Tests
Rohit made his Test debut in 2013 but could not cement a permanent place in the Indian side. Despite his occasional brilliance, inconsistency kept him out of the regular playing XI. However, his fortunes began to change when Kohli and Shastri saw potential in Rohit as a Test opener. Rohit recalls that the idea of him opening in Tests was first floated by Shastri as early as 2015, but it wasn’t until 2019 that the move materialized. Kohli, who was then the Test captain, and Shastri both placed immense faith in Rohit despite initial setbacks.
In a conversation with Jatin Sapru, Rohit reminisced about how he was asked to play a practice match, during which he got out on the very first ball. This moment could have shaken any cricketer’s confidence, but Rohit remained determined. Both Kohli and Shastri reassured him, encouraging him to play his natural, aggressive game. Their trust in his abilities paid off spectacularly when Rohit scored a mammoth 176 runs in his debut innings as a Test opener against South Africa.
Gratitude to Kohli and Shastri
Rohit has repeatedly emphasized his gratitude to both Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri. He acknowledges that promoting him up the order in Test cricket was not an easy decision, given the different dynamics of the format compared to limited-overs cricket. Kohli’s leadership and Shastri’s backing allowed Rohit to approach his innings with freedom, something he cherished.
In his own words, Rohit expressed how this opportunity felt like a second birth in Test cricket. He realized that this was his chance to make a lasting impact, whether it meant opening or batting lower down the order. He embraced the challenge of opening, a role that transformed him from a fringe player into one of India’s premier Test batsmen.
Shastri, who had long advocated for Rohit to open in Tests, was particularly eager for the switch. He had been pushing for this move since 2015 when he was the team’s director, but circumstances had delayed its implementation. Rohit credited Shastri for keeping faith in his ability to succeed at the top of the order, which eventually led to the breakthrough in 2019.
Rohit’s Resurgence as a Test Opener
Since taking on the role of opener, Rohit has become one of the most reliable batsmen for India in Tests. His aggressive style of play, which mirrors his limited-overs approach, has translated well into the longest format. As an opener, he has accumulated over 2500 runs, including nine centuries, solidifying his place at the top of India’s batting order. His contributions have been instrumental in India’s success, especially in home conditions where he thrives against both pace and spin.
Kohli and Shastri’s decision to back Rohit and give him the freedom to play his natural game proved to be a masterstroke. Rohit’s ability to dominate opposition bowlers and his penchant for big scores have made him an invaluable asset to the Indian Test side. The move to open the innings has not only revitalized his career but also added a new dimension to India’s batting lineup, which had often struggled to find consistent openers in Tests.
Conclusion: A Testament to Leadership and Trust
Rohit Sharma’s journey in Test cricket is a testament to the power of leadership and trust. Without the belief of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri, it’s possible that Rohit’s Test career might not have reached the heights it has today. Their decision to promote him as an opener, coupled with Rohit’s determination and natural talent, has elevated him to one of the most successful Test openers in recent years.
This story underscores the importance of faith in players and the impact that the right guidance can have on their careers. As Rohit continues to lead India, his success as an opener remains a shining example of what can be achieved when leadership, trust, and talent come together.