Rohit Sharma stands as one of India's most decorated captains, having led the national team to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. In the Indian Premier League, the 38-year-old is the joint-most successful captain with five titles as skipper, plus one as a player in 2009. His journey began with Deccan Chargers before joining Mumbai Indians in 2011, where he assumed captaincy midway through the 2013 season and immediately delivered a championship. While his immense talent was always evident, Mumbai Indians provided the high-pressure environment that refined his leadership skills. Managing a star-studded lineup including legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Kieron Pollard, and Lasith Malinga shaped him into a captain capable of handling intense expectations. Though Rohit possessed the natural ability to succeed internationally, his franchise experience played a crucial role in transforming him into the legendary figure he is today.
Mumbai Indians Shaped a Champion Captain
Rohit Sharma's early international career was inconsistent, batting in the middle and lower order despite winning the 2007 T20 World Cup. He was not selected for the 2011 ODI World Cup squad. However, MS Dhoni recognized his potential and provided repeated opportunities. Rohit finally justified this faith after becoming India's permanent opener in white-ball formats in 2013, which marked a turning point. His Mumbai Indians experience proved invaluable, as leading a franchise with immense fan expectations and star players like Sachin Tendulkar, Kieron Pollard, and Lasith Malinga prepared him for international captaincy. This high-pressure leadership role at Mumbai Indians undoubtedly contributed to his later success in guiding India to ICC trophies and establishing himself as a legendary captain.
Source: Link