Dinesh Karthik Pays Heartfelt Tribute To Former Indian Skipper Rohit Sharma

On October 4 (Saturday), Rohit Sharma’s time as India’s captain came to an end, after Shubman Gill replaced him as the new ODI captain. Earlier in the year, the Mumbaikar had also called it quits from the Test format after giving up on T20I format after the 2024 T20 World Cup win. 

But his impact on the current Indian side is profound, with India winning both the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy under his leadership. Rohit’s last act as an ODI captain was leading the Indian side to an unbeaten tournament run in the Champions Trophy. 

Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik, who played quite a bit of cricket under Rohit, paid his heartfelt tribute to the former skipper. 

“Rohit Sharma. Thank you so much. You were a phenomenal captain tactically astute, but most importantly, very, very friendly and got along with everyone and made them feel so comfortable. But for me, the legacy that you’ve left as a captain. In those big moments, those big matches, you taught this current team what it takes to win,” said Karthik in a video that he posted on his Instagram handle, reported Indian Express. 

“At times we used to take the backwards step, but you said, ‘I think we need to press forward, put more pressure on the opponent, take more risks, and you didn’t leave it to anyone else.’ I think you started it with the bat when, in the big matches, you said, ‘I’m going to go harder,’ and that required skill. You got it done and you did it consistently. In the last 3 multi-nation tournaments that we have played, India has lost just one game.

“2024 T20 World Cup campaign unbeaten, Champions Trophy unbeaten. 2023, just that final. That is outstanding. And even after that you can see the after effects. Asia Cup unbeaten with a young team. That is what you’ve given this team India. You’ve left it in a better place than what it was when you started, and that’s always a great sign of a leader.

“With the bat during your tenure as an ODI captain, you’ve averaged 52. And you’ve won 42 of the 56 matches that you’ve led. What an amazing record. All good things, as they say, must come to an end. Well, in this journey, I really hope and wish you’re very proud because all of India, when it watched you lead that team was.

“It was just a very beautiful journey to have been a part of, and you achieved special things. I hope you’re very, very happy with your journey. It’s been great. It’s been one that’s pleasure-filled to watch, but most importantly, I wish all the very best to whatever you do in the future. Good luck. I know you’re still around as a player, but that captaincy journey was just unbelievable. Well done,” said Karthik.