Rohit Sharma: A People’s Captain in the Legacy of Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni Renowned cricket commentator and former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has drawn parallels between Rohit Sharma and iconic Indian captains Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni, labeling him a “people’s captain.” Gavaskar’s high praise for Sharma stems from the latter’s exceptional leadership qualities and ability to connect with the masses. He observed that Sharma, like Dev and Dhoni, possesses a unique magnetism that resonates with both players and fans alike. Kapil Dev, who led India to its maiden World Cup triumph in 1983, was known for his fiery determination, fearless approach, and ability to inspire his team to greatness. Gavaskar believes that Sharma exhibits similar traits, particularly in his unwavering belief in his players and his willingness to take risks. MS Dhoni, who captained India to the 2011 World Cup title, was highly respected for his calm demeanor, sharp cricketing brain, and ability to make astute decisions under pressure. Gavaskar noted that Sharma has inherited these qualities and has shown remarkable poise and clarity of thought in his leadership role. However, Gavaskar emphasized that Sharma’s stature as a “people’s captain” is not solely based on his technical abilities or results. It is also due to his approachable nature, humility, and genuine care for the well-being of his players and the game itself. Just like Dev and Dhoni, Sharma has shown a willingness to connect with fans on a personal level, understanding their passion and aspirations for the Indian cricket team. This connection has fostered a strong bond between the captain and the Indian public, solidifying his position as a beloved figure in the cricketing landscape. Gavaskar’s assessment highlights the growing stature of Rohit Sharma as a leader and his potential to leave a lasting legacy in Indian cricket. By embracing the attributes of his predecessors, Dev and Dhoni, Sharma has emerged as a “people’s captain,” a true embodiment of the spirit and passion that defines Indian cricket.Rohit Sharma, India’s T20 World Cup-winning captain, hailed as a ‘captain of the people’Rohit Sharma, India’s T20 World Cup-winning captain, hailed as a ‘captain of the people’ NEW DELHI: The 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup captain, Rohit Sharma, has been praised by legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar, who said that the opener is a captain of the people, just like MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev were. As a member of India’s squad, Rohit won the 2007 T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy in 2013. He finished runner-up in both the 2023 World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup while serving as captain. But when India defeated South Africa by seven runs to win the T20 World Cup at Kensington Oval last month, Rohit finally earned his date with destiny. Rohit referred to his victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup (which India won as the only unbeaten team in the competition) as his finest moment as a player shortly after declaring his retirement from international Twenty20 cricket. “Rohit Sharma joins those other two cricketing giants, Kapil Dev and Dhoni, in captaining India to a World Cup trophy. Like the duo, Rohit is also a captain of the people. “He is much loved, not just by his team members but by the entire Indian cricket fraternity. Cricket fans also love his laconic style of leadership and tactically, he is as good as the sharpest in the game. Some of his plays may surprise you and make you scratch your head for the reason, but the end result, in most cases, is exactly what the team needed at that moment,” Gavaskar wrote in his mid-day column on Sunday, according to IANS. Rohit, who scored 257 runs at a strike rate of 156.70 during the tournament, took on the task of providing India with early runs in batting; his fifties against Australia and England were particularly significant. “He led from the front, showing a complete disregard for personal achievements and instead sought to get the team off to a flying start every time. India are lucky to have him as captain,” Gavaskar added. Gavaskar also praised Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma for their roles as coach and captain, respectively, in guiding India to the elusive trophy glory. “While the players stole the show, as expected, there was also the support staff, led by the one and only Rahul Dravid, who also played a pivotal role in the victory. What a wonderful combination the two formed. Totally team-oriented, completely selfless and willing to do anything for Team India.”Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, has hailed Rohit Sharma as a “people’s captain” in the same vein as Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni. Speaking to a cricket website, Gavaskar said: “Rohit Sharma is a people’s captain. He has the ability to connect with his teammates and get the best out of them. He is also a very good tactician and has a clear understanding of the game.” Gavaskar’s comments come after India’s recent T20I series win against Sri Lanka. Sharma led the team to a 2-1 victory, with India winning the first and third T20Is. Gavaskar believes that Sharma has the potential to be one of the greatest captains in Indian cricket history. “He has all the qualities of a great leader. He is a natural leader and has the respect of his teammates. I am sure he will go on to achieve great things with the Indian team,” Gavaskar said. Sharma was appointed as India’s T20I captain in 2021 and has since led the team to several victories. He is also the captain of the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has won five titles. Gavaskar’s comments are a testament to Sharma’s leadership abilities and his potential to become a great captain.