India’s seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has lauded Rohit Sharma’s leadership skills, describing the national ODI skipper as a “mature captain” who knows how to get the best out of his players.

The 34-year-old, who has been absent from the Indian squad since 2022, will return to competitive cricket in the upcoming Uttar Pradesh T20 League, representing the Lucknow Falcons.

His side will open their campaign on August 18 against the Noida Super Kings.

Speaking on the Lucknow Falcons podcast ahead of the tournament, Kumar praised Sharma’s ability to understand individual strengths and deploy players effectively on the field.

“Rohit Sharma is a mature captain who knows how to use his players and bring out the best in them. He understands each player’s strengths and uses them well. He also talks to me like a normal friend,” Kumar said.

Kumar also credited Sharma’s approachable demeanour for creating a relaxed environment in the dressing room, a trait he believes helps players perform without unnecessary pressure.

Rohit, who has retired from Test and T20I cricket, now leads India exclusively in the 50-over format and is targeting the 2027 ICC World Cup.

His record as captain remains formidable: in 142 matches across formats, India have secured 103 wins, with only 33 defeats, three draws and two no-results.

His T20I tenure stands out, boasting 49 victories from 62 matches — a win percentage of over 74 per cent.

The Meerut-born seamer also reflected on his rapport with former India skipper Virat Kohli. The pair recently shared the Royal Challengers Bengaluru dressing room during the franchise’s triumphant IPL season earlier this year.

“When Virat and I meet, we mostly talk about family matters, but once we step onto the field, it’s all professional and committed to cricket,” Kumar remarked.

While Bhuvneshwar prepares for a domestic return, another former India stalwart, Virender Sehwag, has revisited a turning point in his career.

The explosive opener revealed that he once considered retiring from ODIs after being dropped during the 2007-08 Australia series.

Sehwag recounted seeking advice from Sachin Tendulkar, who urged him not to make decisions in an emotional phase.

The pep talk paid off, with Sehwag returning in the Kitply Cup to score heavily, eventually playing a pivotal role in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph.

He retired from ODIs with 8,273 runs in 251 matches.

Away from his own career, Sehwag spoke about his 15-year-old son Aryavir’s early steps in Delhi’s age-group cricket, stressing the importance of handling expectations.

“Pressure is something you give, not take. I’ve told him he’s free to play as he wishes if he’s interested in cricket. Things are going well; he’s working hard, and hopefully, he’ll play for India or in the Ranji Trophy someday,” Sehwag said.

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