Exploring the Leadership Traits of Rohit Sharma and the Coaching Philosophy of Rahul Dravid through the Lens of the ICC Men’s T20I World Cup

When I first heard Rohit Sharma’s interview on Breakfast with Champions by Gaurav Kapoor, there was no indication of Rohit expressing any desire for captaincy—a leadership role in corporate terminology. However, the stories and videos that have surfaced after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 win illustrate his character as a leader.

Team members have revealed that his primary approach is to offer freedom, saying, “Do what you want.” If it doesn’t work out, then they are requested to follow his instructions and direction. Professionally, this is a commendable approach. Not only does it provide the freedom to express individual talents, but it also offers guidance to rely on when things don’t go as planned. This sensibility also created a safe space for the team to work hard while enjoying themselves on the field.

Rohit Sharma has never projected himself as a star or emphasized the title of “The Captain of the Indian Cricket Team.” He remains very human in his interviews, sharing his likes and dislikes, his infamous habits of forgetfulness, and using explicit language only with those he is comfortable and close to. Rohit is also known to apologize if he crosses a line on the field with his teammates.

Another notable aspect is the collaboration between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. When Virat was captain, he defended Rohit when he was not performing well. Having experienced World Cup victories before (Under-19 World Cup as a captain, ODI World Cup in 2011), Virat exhibited the mindset, skill, and culture required for the team to work cohesively in a healthy manner. Their togetherness was never made obvious, but with both players retiring from the format at the same time, the synergy in their decisions demonstrates their maturity to move into different roles in life.

For me, Rohit stood out as a captain because of how well he encouraged his team to excel and fostered team bonding. Last year, during the run-up to the finals of the ODI World Cup, with the way the team was playing, no one would have guessed that India would lose in the finals. Regardless of how the game progressed, the attitude of the players and the captain was to never give up. The loss was heart-breaking, and Rohit Sharma took time away from the media. Rahul Dravid, the coach, took the stage and shared, “Once the dust settles, we will see what went wrong. Tomorrow is a new day.” Making sure that negativity post the defeat is curbed while maintaining harmony within the team. When Rohit reappeared a few weeks later for interviews, he shared his pain and said it was time to move on.

The approach of both, the coach and the captain, to not let defeat get the better of them is what truly impressed me. As Shri Krishna expressed to Arjuna during the Mahabharata:

“It is not certain that victory will be yours; you can fail too. But if you aren’t attached to victory, you will not fear failure either. And if you believe that you are going to war not for victory or defeat but because it is your duty to fight, then there is no question of the joy of victory and sorrow in defeat. And the one who is attached to neither victory nor defeat has his consciousness fixed in the Supreme One. Don’t be attached to the results of your ‘Karma’, do what is in your control. Follow your Dharma; this is the way of life.”

Rohit Sharma’s Ric Flair-style strut while accepting the cup, displaying his mischievous side, and Rahul Dravid’s emotional outburst on holding the cup are moments to remember for a lifetime for 1.4 billion Indians. Rahul Dravid shared in an interview post-match, “There is no question of redemption. This has been a great win; I’m happy for the boys. From tomorrow, I will be unemployed,” thereby balancing any expectations the audience might have from the team and him.