Rohit Sharma is set to make his debut as India's Test captain tomorrow at the PCA Stadium, starting with the toss against Sri Lanka. Succeeding Virat Kohli puts a significant amount of pressure on his shoulders. Ajit Agarkar, who once played as a pacer for India, remarked that it is a massive privilege for Rohit to lead the side in Test cricket. Agarkar feels that Rohit is well-equipped and confident enough to handle this transition.
According to the 44-year-old former bowler, the runs Rohit accumulated during the Test series in England will provide the mental strength needed to lead from the front. Having scored 368 runs in four matches, with a century and two fifties to his name, Rohit has a solid foundation. Agarkar believes this consistency at the crease will give him the faith he needs, especially since Rohit has been the standout performer in India's home Test series since 2019.
The former pacer highlighted that Rohit's status as one of the squad's top-tier players allows him to lead with authority and demand excellence from his teammates. He isn't new to leadership, either; he has a wealth of experience captaining India in white-ball formats and leading the Mumbai Indians to success in the IPL.
Agarkar further noted that while Test cricket presents a different set of challenges, starting his tenure on home soil—where conditions are well-known—will be a huge advantage. He observed that Rohit's Test form has climbed steadily over the last few years. With such a talented squad behind him, Agarkar is optimistic that Rohit will secure his first victory as captain without much trouble.