'Fantastic Leader, Knows How To Deal With...' - Zaheer Khan Heaps Praise Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma has led India from the front (Twitter)
Zaheer Khan stood in awe of Rohit Sharma's inspirational captaincy throughout the ICC World Cup 2023 and backed the experienced opener to continue leading from the front in the ultimate finale in Ahmedabad against arch-rivals Australia on Sunday (November 19).
As Rohit's men strive to reclaim the coveted World Cup title, the former India pacer, who has worked closely with him in his capacity as Mumbai Indians (MI) bowling coach turned director of cricket in the IPL, said the veteran cricketer's ability to 'deal with the occasions' makes him stand apart.
Hailing him as a 'fantastic leader' of men, Zaheer said the top-order match-winner's balanced nature and outlook has helped the rest of the line-up flourish with him in what has been a remarkable campaign for the tournament hosts.
Zaheer Hails Rohit Sharma's Inspirational Captaincy
His aggressive streak at the top of the order has dampened opposition spirits early while denying them the opportunity to bowl the right lengths and lines. The lack of milestones hasn't hindered the 36-year-old's selfless approach, as he has focused on taking the sting out of attacks and helped the rest of the batting unit play their roles to perfection.
"Rohit Sharma is someone who is a fantastic leader. In this World Cup he's been intense and relaxed at the same time. That is something which has rubbed off in the whole dressing room," Zaheer told Cricbuzz.
"Yet you see him very intense when he goes out to bat, showing that intent from the word go, batting at that strike rate, scoring hundreds. That's what you want from your leader."
"He's someone who has been there and done that so many times. Rohit knows how to deal with big occasions. We've seen at different levels, when you have to win trophies, he knows exactly what it takes. So I think he's going to keep things very simple. I would say keep everything flowing the way it has been," he added.
Rohit has led India's mighty juggernaut to ten consecutive victories, including a comprehensive triumph over New Zealand in the semifinal, from the front by amassing 550 runs in his ten innings at a great strike rate of 124.15.
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