Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer has claimed that Rohit Sharma will end up as a better Test than Virat Kohli, who stepped down as India’s most successful Test captain. The comments came after Rohit led the Asian Giants to a 2-0 win over Sri Lank at home.
Incidentally, Rohit was handed over the reins after Virat Kohli relinquished the leadership duties in the wake of 1-2 defeat against South Africa. The Mumbai batsman has already made his presence felt with a couple of encouraging changes to the side and promoting dynamic wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant to No.5.
A day after India thrashed Sri Lanka, Wasim Jaffer stated that Rohit Sharma has the traits to go past Virat Kohli as skipper in the red-ball format. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, the former opener said:
“Rohit Sharma can become a better Test captain than Virat Kohli. Don’t know how many Tests he will captain, but tactically I feel he is one of the best captains and we are seeing the results of how they have whitewashed each series. It feels like the captaincy has come in the hands of the right captain.”
While it is too early to compare Rohit Sharma with Virat Kohli, who has led India to new heights during his tenure, but the former has the qualities to take the baton forward.
Virat Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain
Virat Kohli has registered 40 wins in 68 matches, the most by an Indian. However, he failed to guide India to the World Test Champions trophy, losing to New Zealand in the summit clash last year.
However, India have registered two series win in Australia during his tenure and have made significant progress in overseas conditions which will be a landmark achievement for Kohli.
If the 35-year-old Rohit Sharma manages to win the Test Championship in this edition, it will certainly be a special feather in his cap.