Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar showered praise on Rohit Sharma after the ex-Indian skipper has shed off some weight before the three-match series against Australia. Rohit has been asked to pass the ODI captaincy baton to Shubman Gill, but the former will continue to ply his trade for the country.

The former Indian all-rounder, Bangar, recalled that Rohit had worked hard in a similar fashion when he was left out of the 2011 ODI World Cup, which was played in India, and MS Dhoni’s team had gone on to win the showpiece event.

Rohit has amassed 11,168 runs in 273 ODI matches at an impressive average of 48.77, and he has all the experience under his belt.

Sanjay Bangar said on Star Sports,  “The last time Rohit Sharma followed such a strict fitness regimen was after he missed out on the 2011 World Cup. That exclusion left a deep wound in his heart, and I think we’re seeing a similar level of determination from him now. From 2012 to 2024, he’s had a wonderful and successful career, but being called out for his fitness has clearly stayed with him, and he has worked hard to address it.”

Bangar added that Rohit seems to be preparing himself for the ODI World Cup 2027, which will be played in South Africa and Namibia. Rohit will be 40 in the marquee event and thus needs to stay at the top of his fitness. 

“It’s visible in his preparation and his mindset. It’s great to see Rohit Sharma hungry and fit once again. Not being the captain, you don’t always have the luxury of fielding inside the 30-yard circle; sometimes you need to patrol the outfield, dive around, and contribute as a fielder too. Rohit seems to be preparing himself completely for that challenge, and that’s a very positive sign,” said Bangar (via the aforementioned source).

The first ODI between India and Australia will be played at Perth on Sunday.