Team India are currently relishing a well-earned week-long break before they face off against the reigning World Cup champions, England. The highly anticipated clash is set to take place at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow this Sunday. India’s impeccable performance in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, with five consecutive wins, places them at the top of the table. Captain Rohit Sharma is determined to uphold their unbeaten record as they take on Jos Buttler’s side.

In an exclusive interview with Star Sports’ show ‘Follow the Blues,’ Rohit Sharma delved into his approach as captain and leader. He underlined how crucial it is to recognize each athlete as a person and cater to their unique demands. He stated,

“I think when it comes to managing players, it’s quite important that you understand the individual first and their requirements, likes and dislikes. In a team sport, it’s not just about one or two individuals; it’s about everyone.”

Rohit Sharma has been a standout performer in the tournament, amassing 311 runs in five matches with an impressive average of 62.2. He notched up his seventh century in the match against Afghanistan, making him the player with the most centuries in the history of the ODI World Cup.

When asked about his captaincy mantra, Rohit shared:

“I try and put myself in their shoes and think about what this individual will be needing now. So, it’s important to think like that. Luckily, I have a good bunch of guys around me; the players and the support staff are quite understanding in terms of the requirements of the team and the players.”

He emphasized that creating a conducive mental space for everyone is crucial, especially during high-pressure tournaments. His leadership style places a strong emphasis on knowing what each team member needs, meeting those needs, and giving them the flexibility to carry out their responsibilities. Years of personal experience and a thorough grasp of what it takes for a team to flourish have helped Rohit refine his approach. In his words,

“To be successful, it’s important to understand everyone’s needs, requirements, and give them the space and freedom to execute their job and roles.”