Rohit Sharma didn't practice as hard as Sachin Tendulkar: Jonty Rhodes
Former Mumbai Indians (MI) fielding coach Jonty Rhodes has opened up on his experience of working with Rohit Sharma in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He stated that the former MI skipper did not practice as hard as someone like Sachin Tendulkar in the nets, but hailed him for staying true to himself.
Rohit was the Mumbai Indians captain from 2013 to 2023. Under him, the franchise won as many as five IPL titles. The Hitman has gone on to lead the Indian team as well and is one of the biggest superstars in the game today.
During his appearance on the YouTube podcast Aleena Dissects, Rhodes reminisced about his experience with Rohit and recalled how he prepared in the nets. The South African legend said: (as quoted by Times of India):
"I mean he hasn't changed at all. It's so ridiculous. I just picture his walk when he came out to bat and he would have a few throw-downs in the nets or even shadow-hitting, it was just majestic."
"He didn't practice as hard as Sachin Tendulkar. That's for sure. Maybe he practices away from the nets at times but just his technical ability and I think he doesn't have the best technique," the 55-year-old added.
Rhodes went on to explain that the Indian Test and ODI captain has tasted amazing success with the willow due to his relaxed demeanor and his great hand flow. The former Proteas cricketer elaborated:
"He's being criticized for not having a lot of foot movement, but because he is so relaxed at the crease and those hands flow well. It's been great to see him because he stayed the same, true to himself and I think that's so important."
Rhodes is currently the fielding coach of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League.
"He's quite the cheeky guy" - Jonty Rhodes on Rohit Sharma's personality
Besides his batting exploits, Rohit is known as someone who loves having fun on and off the cricket field. He is often seen joking with teammates and trying to ensure youngsters are not overawed by a challenge.
Rhodes believes that the Indian cricketer's personality helps in keeping the atmosphere around the team calm and positive.
"Even when playing against him or coaching against him, whether he is at IPL, franchise level or international cricket, you see the same. You know, messes around with the teammates, you can hear some of the stuff in the microphone," Rhodes said.
"He's really funny and people don't expect that from Rohit. He's quite the cheeky guy. He's a senior guy but he's behaving like a kid. I think as a captain that takes the pressure away, the mindset you know, the players are not stressed under him," the South African great concluded.
Rohit will next be seen in action when India take on Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, which starts in Chennai on September 19.