Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma setting high standards with his captaincy
Rohit Sharma is quickly becoming a notable ODI captain for India. In Virat Kohli's absence, the Mumbaikar has done a tremendous job in the ongoing Asia Cup 2018. Not just this, he was also on top of his role in the Nidahas Trophy earlier this year, as well. Here's an analysis on how Rohit has come forward in excelling as a skipper.
Shorter formats have aided Rohit's captaincy
Rohit isn't new to captaincy and has guided Mumbai Indians to IPL titles on more than one occasion. The opening batsman has been an extraordinary player in the shorter formats and that has been telling in his role as a skipper as well. Further, his performance, as a batsman, has improved drastically. His knowledge of the game makes him a sound personality.
Rohit knows how to get the best out of team
His understanding of situations is better than most. Rohit knows how to get the best out of his team and his bowling changes are decisive. He has been patient as a skipper and hasn't tried out fancy stuff whenever he has led the Indian side. Also his understanding with Shikhar Dhawan is a plus and they compliment each other well while batting.
Sunil Gavaskar is impressed with Rohit's captaincy
The legendary Sunil Gavaskar is impressed with Sharma. According to a report published on the ICC's official website, Gavaskar said that the added responsibility has made him better. "Every time he has got an opportunity to captain India, he has shown his acumen. He has shown how patient he can be, and then as a batsman, the added responsibility only makes him better."
India have done well in the Asia Cup
India have done well under Rohit and in the Asia Cup 2018 they have maintained a 100% win record so far. Rohit's decision to chase in the win against Bangladesh needs to be lauded. This is his third series as skipper and he will want to fare well once again. As a batsman he has been among the runs as well.
Rohit's style suits the team well
What bodes well for Rohit here is that he has learned so much from both Kohli and former skipper MS Dhoni. Every skipper has his specialities. Rohit is no different and his style suits the side. Perhaps, he could be given more opportunities.
Our take: Is Rohit better than Kohli?
Virat Kohli has been superb as an ODI captain and India have won consistently and the highlight was the win against Proteas, in 2018. At the moment it is unfair to compare Rohit with Kohli, with both being consistent. Rohit is still fresh as a skipper and hasn't yet led the side outside the sub-continent. Further, Rohit hasn't yet captained against top ODI units.