In the wake of India’s 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, captain Rohit Sharma has faced significant scrutiny over his leadership and batting performance. Despite the criticism, Indian pacer Akash Deep has expressed unwavering support for Sharma, praising his captaincy and the positive impact he has on the team.
Akash Deep, who participated in two Tests during the series, shared his admiration for Sharma’s leadership style. He stated, “I consider myself very lucky to have had the chance to start under Rohit. The way he leads and keeps things simple, I have never seen a captain like him.”
Sharma’s approachability and supportive nature have been particularly beneficial for emerging players like Akash Deep. The pacer noted that Sharma’s ability to simplify complex situations and provide clear guidance has been instrumental in building confidence within the squad. “Rohit bhai keeps things very simple, and that helps players a lot,” Akash Deep added.
During the series, Sharma’s own performance with the bat was below par, accumulating only 31 runs across five innings. His leadership decisions, including team selections and on-field strategies, have been subjects of debate among cricket analysts and fans. However, Akash Deep emphasized that Sharma’s calm demeanor and strategic acumen have been invaluable, especially during challenging phases of the game.
Reflecting on his experience in Australia, Akash Deep acknowledged the learning curve presented by the tour. He mentioned that playing under Sharma’s captaincy provided him with the necessary support to adapt to the demanding conditions. “In Australia, as a fast bowler, I learned a lot that will help me both mentally and physically. Even when our bodies were tired, our mindset was to push ourselves because the team needed long spells from us,” he remarked.
The pacer also highlighted the role of head coach Gautam Gambhir in fostering a conducive environment for players. He appreciated Gambhir’s motivational skills and the freedom he grants players, which have been pivotal in their mental preparation and on-field performance. “Gambhir sir also motivates and gives freedom, which greatly helps players mentally,” Akash Deep observed.
Despite the series loss, Akash Deep remains optimistic about the team’s prospects under Sharma’s leadership. He believes that the experience gained from the Australian tour will serve as a foundation for future successes. “There are still areas where I can improve, and I’m working hard to do so,” he stated, reflecting a commitment to personal and team development.
As the Indian cricket team prepares for upcoming challenges, the endorsement from players like Akash Deep underscores the internal support for Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. While external criticism persists, the camaraderie and confidence within the squad suggest a collective resolve to overcome recent setbacks and strive for excellence in future engagements.