NEW DELHI: Former Mumbai Indians fielding coach Jonty Rhodes reminisced about his earlier experiences with Rohit Sharma during the IPL. He emphasized that, in contrast to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit did not exhibit the same level of dedication and intensity during net practice sessions.

“I mean he hasn’t changed at all. It’s so ridiculous. I just picture his walk when he came out to bat and he would have a few throw-downs in the nets or even shadow-hitting, it was just majestic.

He didn’t practice as hard as Sachin Tendulkar. That’s for sure. Maybe he practices away from the nets at times but just his technical ability and I think he doesn’t have the best technique,” Rhodes said in a YouTube podcast titled Aleena Dissects.

Rhodes also discussed the factors that have contributed to Rohit’s success as a batter, despite not having the most technically sound footwork.

“He’s being criticised for not having a lot of foot movement, but because he is so relaxed at the crease and those hands flow well. It’s been great to see him because he stayed the same, true to himself and I think that’s so important,” he added.

The Lucknow Super Giants coach stated that Rohit cannot be compared to Virat Kohli and praised him for staying true to his authentic self.

“Because if you’re a Virat Kohli and you’re in the face of people. that’s Virat Kohli. But you can’t ask him to do all that, Rohit is taking over from this guy, be like him. If you’re true to yourself then you’re going to be more consistent in your performance so it’s been good to see his journey,” he further added.

Rhodes spoke about Rohit’s lighthearted and playful demeanor. His ability to joke around and behave in a fun, “cheeky” manner helps to create a relaxed team atmosphere.

“Even when playing against him or coaching against him, whether he is at IPL, franchise level or international cricket, you see the same. You know, messes around with the teammates, you can hear some of the stuff in the microphone.”

“He’s really funny and people don’t expect that from Rohit. He’s quite the cheeky guy. He’s a senior guy but he’s behaving like a kid. I think as a captain that takes the pressure away, the mindset you know, the players are not stressed under him,” he concluded.

Agencies

Agencies