Champions Trophy: Suryakumar throws weight behind Rohit Sharma
What's the story
India's T20I captain and star batter Suryakumar Yadav has thrown his full weight behind Rohit Sharma.
The endorsement comes just days ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on March 09.
Suryakumar's support comes after Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed criticized Rohit's leadership as "uninspiring" and questioned his fitness levels.
"As a captain, he has led us to four ICC events final, it is a big matter for the country," SKY said speaking to ANI.
Achievements
Suryakumar highlights Rohit's long-standing contributions
As mentioned, Suryakumar came to Rohit's defense and emphasized on his immense contributions to Indian cricket over the years.
He said Rohit has performed at the top level for nearly two decades, leading India to major milestones, including the 2024 T20 World Cup victory.
"It is really big if someone plays this way for 15-20 years. I have watched him so closely, how hard he works during franchise and international cricket," Suryakumar said.
Leadership
Rohit has guided India to 4 ICC finals
Suryakumar lauded Rohit's leadership skills, adding that under his captaincy, India made it to the finals of the ODI and T20 World Cup, Champions Trophy, and World Test Championship.
He added that if India perform well against New Zealand, it will be just another game.
Suryakumar also stressed on all players and support staff doing well in the match.
"I would like everyone to perform well, from player number one to 15 and the support staff as well," he added.
Impact
Suryakumar credits Rohit's leadership for successful campaigns
Suryakumar, who thrived under Rohit's captaincy for India and Mumbai Indians, credited his leadership for shaping successful campaigns.
Playing a key role in India's T20 World Cup final win against South Africa with a stunning catch to dismiss David Miller, Suryakumar understands Rohit's impact on the squad.
ODI numbers
Rohit's ODI numbers at a glance
Rohit, India's ODI and Test skipper, recently breached the 11,000-run mark in ODIs and now owns 11,092 runs at 48.64.
He also boasts a strike rate of 92.81 alongside 32 hundreds and 57 fifties. Notably, his highest score is 264.
According to ESPNcricinfo, 2,430 of his runs have come as team captain while averaging 51.70. He also boasts five tons and 16 fifties (55 ODIs) in this regard.