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"A mean machine": Abhishek Nayar on how Rohit Sharma redefined his transformation game

Akshita Patel

Abhishek Nayar sheds light on Rohit Sharma's transformation [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]Abhishek Nayar sheds light on Rohit Sharma's transformation [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]

Former Indian assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has hailed Rohit Sharma for his remarkable transformation. He called him a “mean machine” ready to dominate the upcoming tour of Australia.

Rohit, who led India to the Champions Trophy 2025 title, has undergone a complete mental and physical shift in his approach, focusing on precision and power. 

Abhishek Nayar reveals the secret behind Hitman’s new look

Speaking on Star Sports, Abhishek Nayar revealed Rohit Sharma was training intensively for 12 weeks leading up to the India vs Australia ODI series. 

"Initially, we sort of realised that there were 12 weeks before this Australia series. The thought process was to do something different. Since we had time on our hands, it was not about maintaining but growth. Growth in regards to his physical structure, growth in regards to his movements. How he viewed himself, how he looked in the mirror," Nayar said.

The transformation, however, was sparked by unexpected trolling. A few months ago, paparazzi photos of Rohit walking out of the Mumbai airport went viral, drawing harsh comments about his weight and fitness.

According to Nayar, that criticism lit a fire in Rohit. Over a 12-week period, the former skipper worked tirelessly on strength, agility, and mobility. 

"That was the thought process. 12 weeks were about making a difference when people viewed them. There was a lot of talk about him putting on weight and a few images of him coming out of the airport, so it was about changing all of that.  It has been 12 weeks of hard work and perseverance, not just in training but also with his diet and habits. He's made a lot of sacrifices, and that has transformed him into, if I may say so, a mean machine," he added.

The results are visible. Rohit Sharma is now a lean, powerful man ready to confront Australia's aggressive bowling attack.

Rohit to play as a specialist batter in Australia

In an unexpected development, Rohit Sharma was dropped as India's ODI captain for the 3-match series against Australia, which commences on October 19, 2025.

Shubman Gill has been named as the new captain, with BCCI looking to establish a leadership framework for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.

Rohit, who has captained India in 56 ODIs since December 2021, was said to have been told of the decision but is still in the team. He will bat as a specialist and open with Gill.