India captain Rohit Sharma has sent a strong message to the youngsters of the team aspiring to be India’s Test captain, urging them to “work hard” and “earn” their opportunity rather than expecting it to be given to them on the platter as well. Speaking candidly during lunch break at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), where the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is taking place, he has emphasized that becoming Test captain is not a privilege but a responsibility as well.

Speaking on Star Sports, Rohit Sharma said at the SCG: “It is very difficult to say who will be India’s next captain. There are many boys. But I want them to understand the importance of cricket first. Understand the importance of this place. They are new boys. I know they should be given responsibility. But let them earn it. Let them play some hard-fought cricket for the next few years or whatever it is. Let them earn it. I am here now. Bumrah is here. Virat was here before him. MS Dhoni was here before him. Everyone has earned it.”

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He further added, “No one has got it on a plate. No one should get it like this. Let them work hard. There is a lot of talent in the boys. But at the same time, I also want to say that it is not easy to become the captain of India. There is pressure. But it is a great honor. Our history and the way we play cricket have a great responsibility on both shoulders. So let them earn it.”

Furthermore, Rohit Sharma lauded Jasprit Bumrah, who led India in the Perth Test, and did fairly well. He called Bumrah a player of “class” who sets an example with his bowling as well. He also shared how Bumrah has grown and evolved over the years.

Rohit Sharma concluded, “Of course, he has a lot of game ideas. The way he sets an example of his bowling for others, that is class. He has class. He understands the game. He always keeps the team ahead. He has evolved a lot in himself. With his game, with his thinking.”