Selfless Rohit hits his way out of trouble

Rohit en route his match-winning hundred at Cuttack.
| Photo Credit: K.R. DEEPAK

Self-advocacy is an essential trait in elite sportspersons. When there is a downturn in form, when the critical press sharpens its pens and fans question their stars’ worth, it is this quality that’s the beleaguered athlete’s best friend.

Over the course of the last two months, Rohit Sharma has passionately defended himself amidst nosediving fortunes and a barrage of criticism. And in Cuttack against England on Sunday, he backed up his words with action, scoring a splendid century (119, 90b, 12×4, 7×6), his 32nd in ODIs.

“When people have played for a number of years and scored runs, that means something,” Rohit told bcci.tv, basking in the glory of his match-winning hundred, but in a rather understated manner.

“I have played for a long time now and I know what is required of me. It was about doing the things I have done [in the past], and try and bat the way I do. I have been here long enough. One or two knocks will not change my mind. It was just another day in the office.”

The innings from Rohit was typically selfless. He didn’t tone down his attacks and unflinchingly — and successfully — executed the same shots that have led to his downfall in the recent past.

“When you go to bed every day, if you feel that you have given your best, that is what matters,” Rohit said. “Every time I walk in, I want to do well. Sometimes it happens, sometimes it may not. As long as I am clear in what I have to do, nothing else matters.

“When you have scored so many runs, you have done something right. You just need to get back to that mindset. Sounds very simple, but it is difficult. In my mind, it was just about enjoying and that is what we play the sport for – to enjoy the game more than anything else.”