'He is Not...': Nasser Hussain Compares Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli's Captaincies
Rohit Sharma led India to a 4-1 series win vs England
In a massive turn of events after the series opener that saw England's "Bazball" strategy face a stern examination, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team emerged victorious as they asserted their dominance on home soil.
The final match in Dharamsala was not just another win for India but a thumping statement from skipper Rohit, who, after facing criticism for being 'past his prime' from the likes of Geoffrey Boycott, responded in the most emphatic manner possible.
Nasser Hussain highlights Rohit contrasting approach to Kohli's captaincy
Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India showed incredible fight and character, qualities that were on full display throughout the five-match series against England, which they clinched 4-1 after losing the first Test.
Speaking with Michael Atherton, former England captain, Nasser Hussain shed light on Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. Contrary to perceptions of Rohit being a laid-back captain, Hussain pointed out the thoughtful and skillful manoeuvering that defined his approach to captaincy throughout the series.
“I think sometimes people confuse Rohit as a laidback cricketer who just lets the game drift. There is a lot of skill, thought, and brilliance about his batting,” said Hussain on Sky Sports.
Hussain further highlighted the learning curve Rohit experienced, particularly in his deployment of bowlers. An initial reluctance to use Ravi Ashwin with the new ball against England's Ben Duckett was rectified in subsequent matches, illustrating Rohit's capacity to adapt and fine-tune strategies.
“I thought he had an excellent series as captain. Earlier on in the series, he didn't bowl (Ravi) Ashwin with the new ball. And (Ben) Duckett, sitting there and waiting with his nemesis Ashwin, would get to 60s-70s before Ashwin comes on. But Rohit learnt from something he wasn't getting right. In cricket, there is a grey area in there, and you do not get things right, sometimes,” added the England veteran.
Moreover, the 55-year-old contrasted Rohit's leadership style with that of his predecessor, Virat Kohli, noting the former's more understated yet equally fiery determination. He also touched on the influence of head coach Rahul Dravid, pointing out the collective drive towards ruthlessness.
“Don't confuse (Rohit with Virat's captaincy) because he has come off the back of Virat Kohli. In your face, aggressive captain. In the huddle at Lord's, saying let's unleash hell on the England batting lineup. Rohit is not quite the same sort of person. He has that fire burning within. And also Rahul as well, we know Rahul Dravid, losing that game in Hyderabad, would have hurt Rahul Dravid.
Because they were ahead in that game. And one thing Dravid isn't is, ruthless, and he would have wanted them to be more ruthless. I think we saw signs of that as the series progressed,” concluded Hussain.
With this win, Rohit Sharma and his team have not only strengthened their fortress at home but have also sent a clear message to detractors.
 "Jatin")
