
Rohit Sharma Emphasizes Preparation After Retiring from Tests
Former India captain Rohit Sharma, who retired from Test cricket earlier this year, said the format is both “challenging and draining.” He noted that red-ball cricket requires a high level of mental freshness and physical fitness to sustain performance over five days.
Importance of Longevity and Preparation
Rohit stressed that Test cricket demands longevity and rigorous preparation. Drawing on his roots in Mumbai’s domestic setup, he said even local club matches are played over multiple days, shaping players early for the longer format. He described discipline and pre-match routines as essential for success.
Managing Mental Fatigue
The veteran batter highlighted the role of mental conditioning. He said players must continuously talk to themselves while batting, adjusting plans according to bowlers and match situations. This, he explained, helps maintain concentration and reduces the risk of lapses during long innings.
Farewell to Red-Ball Cricket
Rohit ended his Test career after playing 67 matches, scoring 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including nine centuries. While stepping away from the longest format, he remains active in ODIs and T20Is, continuing to be a key figure in Indian cricket.