Former India coach Sanjay Bangar said Rohit Sharma is training with the same determination he showed after missing the 2011 World Cup.
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes Rohit Sharma is preparing intensely to prove his fitness and form ahead of the ODI series against Australia. Rohit last featured for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Bangar noted that Rohit’s current fitness regime mirrors the dedication he showed after being left out of the 2011 World Cup squad. He added that criticism over fitness has driven the Indian skipper to work harder and refine his physical standards.
“The last time Rohit Sharma followed such a strict fitness regimen was after he missed out on the 2011 World Cup. That exclusion left a deep wound in his heart, and I think we’re seeing a similar level of determination from him now. From 2012 to 2024, he’s had a wonderful and successful career, but being called out for his fitness has clearly stayed with him, and he has worked hard to address it,” said Bangar while speaking on JioHotstar.
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“It’s visible in his preparation and his mindset. It’s great to see Rohit Sharma hungry and fit once again. As a captain, you don’t always have the luxury of fielding inside the 30-yard circle; sometimes, you need to patrol the outfield, dive around, and contribute as a fielder too. Rohit seems to be preparing himself completely for that challenge, and that’s a very positive sign,” he added.
India’s eight-match white-ball series against Australia begins on Sunday, October 19, with focus on Rohit Sharma’s and Virat Kohli’s return. The first match is followed by matches at Adelaide Oval on October 23 and Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25. All games will start at 9:00 AM IST.
Last Updated on October 13, 2025
