Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most celebrated openers and a former Test captain, has opened up about the true demands of the longest format of the game, describing Test cricket as “mentally challenging and draining.” Reflecting on his years in whites, Rohit underlined that success in this format is not just about skill, but about preparation, discipline, and a resilient mindset.
According to Rohit, the grind of Test cricket begins long before the first ball is bowled. Players need to invest in preparation—both physical and mental—to withstand the unique challenges of playing over five days. Unlike the fast-paced nature of T20s and ODIs, Test cricket demands unwavering concentration, adaptability to changing conditions, and the ability to recover quickly after long stints at the crease or in the field. “Longevity starts with preparation,” Rohit stressed, adding that no player can sustain success in Tests without a solid foundation built on practice, recovery, and strategic planning.
He recalled his early days when transitioning from domestic cricket to the international stage required a significant mental adjustment. Domestic multi-day cricket taught him patience, but the pressure at the highest level was of a different magnitude. “You have to be mentally fresh,” he emphasized, explaining that Test cricket is as much about mental resilience as it is about technical ability. One lapse in focus can undo hours of hard work, and that mental toll accumulates across series and tours.
Rohit also pointed out that preparation goes beyond net sessions. It encompasses building routines, managing fatigue, and learning how to deal with failure. In the era of back-to-back cricket and the dominance of white-ball formats, finding the time and energy to prepare for Tests is harder than ever. Yet, he believes it is essential for any player aspiring for longevity and excellence in the format.
For him, captaincy in Tests amplified the challenge. It required him to balance personal performance with team strategies, manage players’ workloads, and constantly stay mentally alert. Despite the strain, he views his stint as India’s Test captain as a privilege that deepened his respect for the game.
As Rohit steps away from the rigors of Test cricket, his reflections serve as a reminder of why this format remains the ultimate test of character. In an era where T20 leagues dominate headlines, his words reinforce the belief that Test cricket is not just a game—it’s a relentless examination of endurance, skill, and mental fortitude. The players who thrive here are those who embrace the grind, prepare meticulously, and understand that survival is as much about the mind as it is about the bat and ball.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025