Aakash Chopra has clarified that Rohit Sharma’s comment about the importance of ‘hunger’ in Test cricket was not a dig at any specific individual but rather a general statement about the challenges of the format. Rohit’s remark came after India’s impressive Test win against England in Ranchi.
Chopra addressed the issue on his YouTube channel, stating that Rohit was emphasizing the need for discipline and dedication to succeed in Test cricket, which he considers the toughest format. According to Chopra, the Indian captain was not targeting any particular player but rather highlighting the essential qualities required for success in the demanding Test arena.
“Rohit Sharma has said that this is the toughest format and if you have to succeed in that, you need a lot of discipline and dedication. He also said that it’s evident if someone does not have that hunger, but he was not hinting at anyone,” clarified Aakash Chopra.
ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari Details Circumstances Leading To Resignation From Andhra Captaincy
He further explained that Rohit, in his complete statement, mentioned that there is no one within or outside the playing group expressing a lack of interest in playing Test cricket. Therefore, Chopra asserted that Rohit was not making derogatory remarks about any player but rather emphasizing the challenging nature of Test cricket.
During the post-match press conference in Ranchi, Rohit Sharma stated that players with the hunger and desire to play would be given priority. He emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities and performing in tough conditions, indicating that those who don’t exhibit the necessary hunger might not find a place in the Test squad.
“It’s a tough format and if you want success and if you want to excel, then hunger is very important. We will only give chances to the ones who have that hunger. You eventually get to know who doesn’t have that hunger to play Tests,” Rohit Sharma had stated.
ALSO READ: Bayern Munich Picks Virat Kohli As Cross-Sport Equivalent To Manuel Neuer
The ongoing Test series against England has witnessed India handing debuts to promising players like Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, and Akash Deep based on their outstanding performances in domestic cricket. Rohit’s comments align with the team management’s approach to rewarding players who exhibit the hunger and dedication required for success in Test cricket.
