After three months retiring from Test cricket, Rohit Sharma speak about how challenging the test format really was. He said Test matches are not just about showing skill with the bat or ball, but also about staying strong in mind and body. Playing for five long days takes a lot of patience and energy, and while the physical part is tiring, Rohit shared that the mental pressure is even more draining.
Test Cricket is Long and Hard
Rohit said Test cricket goes on for five days, which makes it very demanding. Players have to stay focused for long hours without losing patience. He called it “mentally challenging” and “draining” because it not only tires the body but also the mind. A player has to keep thinking, planning, and staying calm through every session to survive and succeed.
Preparation Made the Difference
Rohit told everyone that preparation helped him a lot. He said most of the work happens before the match starts. Players get ready by practicing, planning, and learning about the pitch and the other team. When the match begins, you must react quickly. If you have prepared well, you can make better choices under pressure.
Mumbai and Domestic Cricket Helped Him
Rohit praised India’s domestic cricket, especially the games in Mumbai. In Mumbai, even local club games commonly go on for across two or three days, giving young players an early glimpse of long format cricket. This helped Rohit learn to play long and stay focused. He said growing up in that system taught him how to handle tough playing conditions.
Learning to Value Preparation
When Rohit was young, he said he just enjoyed playing and did not think much about planning. But later, as he met older players and coaches, he learned that practice and planning are very important. He explained that preparation teaches discipline. Test cricket needs discipline because small mistakes can become big problems over five days.
Mental Freshness is Important
Rohit also spoke about how important it is to stay mentally fresh during a Test match. He explained that concentration is the key to performing well, because players often have to stay on the field for long hours. If the mind is clear and rested, it becomes easier to focus, remain patient, and handle tough moments without making mistakes. He said this focus is needed in every role whether batting for many overs, fielding all day, or making smart decisions as a captain when the pressure is high.
His Journey as an Opener
Rohit became a Test opener in the era of 2019, which turned out to be a big moment in his career.He was the 2nd leading run scorer for India in 2021 WTC cycle. At first, it was tough, and he had to work hard to adjust to the new role. But with time and effort, he became more consistent and confident. He soon established himself as one of India’s main openers in home matches, scoring valuable runs and helping the team in crucial moments.
A Life Lesson: Preparation Matters
Rohit finished by saying that preparation matters in cricket and in life. He believes that good planning and hard work make it easier to face pressure. Even though he retired from Test cricket, his words show how much effort goes into performing well at the highest level. Sharma,s journey teaches that success is built through years of hard work and dedication away from the attention. It is not only about talent but also about practice, patience, and staying strong in the mind.