Rohit banks on teamwork ahead of IPL

Indian cricket will hit the restart button with the IPL from September 19 in the UAE even as the world continues its frenzied battle to contain the Covid-19 pandemic. The man, who led Mumbai Indians to four titles, knows that as captain, it will not just be about him getting back into the groove after a forced sevenmonth break.

“I believe in a theory that when you are captain, you are the least important person. Others become more important in the larger scheme of things. It works differently for different leaders but as far as I am concerned, this theory works for me,” Rohit said on Wednesday.

“Not showing anger is not a conscious effort,” he laughs.

“That’s a natural instinct that you have and you don’t try and be someone that you are not. Try and be yourself all the time,” he said.

“You do get angry, lose temper at times but it’s important not to show it to your teammates. Hiding your emotions is the most crucial part.”

The Indian vice-captain believes that there is “enough time” before the IPL starts and he would slowly build on his strength, stamina and skills during the next one month after the long lay-off. “Hopefully, the gym will open this week and I can start my indoor (strength training) sessions. Right now, due to Mumbai monsoons, you can’t train outdoor. I am planning to write a letter to MCA (on using indoor facilities),” he said. Having won an Asia Cup in Dubai in 2018, he has a fair idea about what awaits his team next month in terms of conditions.

Rohit said the plan is to build up slowly after being away from his bat for the longest he can remember.