New Delhi: Former India selector Jatin Paranjape shared that Rohit Sharma was deeply hurt when doubts were raised about his commitment during his career. Paranjape shared the insights about the player’s deep connection with the red-ball format despite his recent retirement from the format ahead of the England series.
Like many, he was also surprised by Rohit’s decision without a proper farewell match. He recently revealed the details of a conversation and a glimpse into the mindset of a young cricketer who wanted to represent India in all formats.
Paranjape disclosed the conversation that happened with Hitman when he was not part of India’s Test setup. He highlighted Sharma’s emotional response to doubts about his dedication to Test cricket.
On the A Century of Stories podcast, the ex-selector said, “I remember he was not playing Tests for India and we had this conversation and he said, ‘I started playing cricket with a red ball, Jatin. How can you say that I am not interested in Test cricket?’ I got the message and I was hoping that that was what he would say.”
Paranjape confirmed Rohit’s strong reaction to these doubts, adding, “His point of view was that ‘I have grown up playing with the red ball, how can I be far away from it?’ That’s again his unique perspective.”
Rohit Sharma struggled for many years to get into the Test setup but the turning point in his career came when, six years ago, former India head coach Ravi Shastri suggested him as an opener. From there on, the trajectory of his red-ball career changed completely.
Paranjape said, “That’s the big moment. I remember I was part of the selection committee at that time. That was Ravi Shastri’s idea. Superb thinker. Ravi is three to four steps ahead of everybody when it comes to reading the game.”
Paranjape on Rohit’s retirement
Paranjape was not happy with Rohit’s decision when he withdrew from the Test in Sydney, as that could have turned India’s chances of equalising the series against Australia.
“He said he lives for Tests. I think Rohit could have done a lot more in Tests. I think he would be the first one to say that as well. I was a little bit disappointed that he chose to drop himself in Sydney because we could have levelled the series,” Jatin noted.
Rohit’s legacy across formats
While Rohit’s Test journey had challenges but his contribution to Indian cricket across formats has been immense. In a career spanning across 499 international matches, Rohit has scored 19,700 runs at an average of 42.18. His ability to adapt and deliver in all formats has earned him praise from legends like Brian Lara, who recently called him a ‘legend’. Rohit Sharma’s Test story is one of patience, passion and transformation proving that with the right opportunity even setbacks can turn into defining moments.