"Rohit is a great leader" - Shikhar Dhawan backs star opener after IND vs NZ 2024 Test series loss

Former Indian opening batter Shikhar Dhawan has thrown his weight behind Rohit Sharma amid criticism over his captaincy. The former left-hander believes the bond Rohit has forged with his teammates is indispensible.

With India losing their first home Test series in 12 years, Rohit has come under scrutiny. The Indian team is also on the verge of facing a first series whitewash on home soil when they take on New Zealand in the third and final Test in Mumbai.

Speaking to India Today, Dhawan suggested that Rohit's greatness as captain cannot only be measured by wins and losses.

"As a cricketer, we don't think that way. And Rohit is a great leader; it's not just about winning and losing. There's a bond, the team's connection with its leader, and how much they look up to him," he said.

Rohit has also suffered a dip in form, managing only one half-century across four innings in the ongoing series. His low returns at the top is one of the main reasons behind India's historic series defeat to New Zealand.

"The boys are very, very professional and will perform well" - Shikhar Dhawan ahead of the Australia tour

Despite reports emerging that Rohit could miss the first Test against Australia in Perth, the retired cricketer has no doubts the tourists will be up for the challenge.

"India will do very well in Australia. Whether he plays the first match or not, of course, his presence and experience will be missed. But I am sure the boys are very, very professional and will perform well," he said during the aforementioned conversation.

India have held the Border-Gavaskar Trophy since the 2014-15 series and start as marginal favorites ahead of the five-Test affair. The tourists had also emerged victorious in the last two series Down Under. Nevertheless, they will face a stern test, especially after a series loss to the Black Caps.