India head coach Gautam Gambhir has asked Rohit Sharma to play without any pressure and continue batting the way he always has. The team management wants the senior opener to stay relaxed and enjoy his cricket rather than worrying about expectations or outside noise.
Sports Tak reported that Gambhir’s message to Rohit is simple. The veteran batter has done a lot for Indian cricket over the years, and the coaching staff wants him to express himself freely whenever he walks out to bat.
“Rohit has done a lot for this team and the country in white-ball cricket. The coach wants him to play the way he has played throughout his career and express himself freely,” a source said ahead of the second ODI of the series against England as quoted by Sports Tak.
The management believes Rohit performs at his best when he is mentally free. Rather than worrying about what lies ahead, the focus is on helping him make the biggest possible impact in the present.
According to sources, this approach has nothing to do with any discussions about Rohit’s future.
“Nobody knows what the future holds. The focus right now is on the present. The team management wants Rohit to have complete peace of mind so that he can give his best whenever he plays,” the source added.
The support from the coaching staff shows their trust in Rohit’s experience and match-winning ability. They believe that by allowing him to play his natural attacking game without extra pressure, India can continue to benefit from one of its finest white-ball batters.
There has been plenty of speculation over the future of some of India’s senior players in recent months. However, the message from the current team management is clear, they are fully backing Rohit Sharma as India continues its white-ball campaign.
“The way Rohit has been batting under pressure, it seems clear that he needs a bit of time and mental space rather than constant scrutiny. Players of his calibre often deliver their best when they are free from external pressure and allowed to trust their natural instincts. Instead of overanalysing every innings, it is important to back someone who has consistently delivered for India over the years. A relaxed and confident Rohit is capable of changing games on his own, and sometimes faith and patience are just as important as technical adjustments,” the source further added.
Rohit Sharma will now be seen featuring for India in the second ODI against England which is scheduled to take place on July 16 at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff.