Cricket

Former Mumbai Indians fielding coach Jonty Rhodes has shared his observations on Rohit Sharma's batting style and demeanor during his time with the franchise. Rhodes noted that while Rohit's technical footwork may not be the most sound, his exceptional hand-eye coordination and relaxed approach at the crease have been key factors in his success as a batter.Rhodes emphasized that Rohit's practice habits differed from those of legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar. "He didn't practice as hard as Sachin Tendulkar. That's for sure," Rhodes said. However, he acknowledged that Rohit's natural talent and ability to execute his shots with ease have compensated for any perceived lack of technical perfection.Despite criticism for his limited foot movement, Rhodes believes that Rohit's relaxed stance and fluid hand movements have allowed him to overcome this perceived weakness. "He's being criticized for not having a lot of foot movement, but because he is so relaxed at the crease and those hands flow well, it's been great to see him," Rhodes said.Rhodes also praised Rohit's ability to stay true to himself, both on and off the field. He believes that Rohit's lighthearted and playful demeanor has helped create a relaxed and enjoyable team atmosphere. "He's really funny and people don't expect that from Rohit. He's quite the cheeky guy," Rhodes said.Rhodes concluded by highlighting Rohit's leadership qualities, noting that his ability to connect with his teammates and create a positive environment has been instrumental in his success as a captain. "As a captain, that takes the pressure away, the mindset you know, the players are not stressed under him," Rhodes said.

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma's witty one-liners and candid comments have become a staple of the sport. His interactions with reporters and teammates have garnered widespread attention, showcasing his playful and charismatic nature.South African cricket legend Jonty Rhodes, who worked with Rohit as the Mumbai Indians fielding coach in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has shed light on the India skipper's "naughty" side. Rhodes revealed that Rohit's interactions with his teammates are often filled with humor and banter."The way that he interacts with his teammates, he's quite a character. He's quite a naughty boy, almost. He says a few things on the stump mic and you go 'Oh! Do you know people are listening, Ro?' I don't understand all of it but it's always broadcast and translated for us," Rhodes said.Rhodes also praised Rohit's growth as a captain, highlighting his ability to connect with his teammates and foster a positive environment."From a captaincy point of view, he has been superb. I was with him at MI for a quite few seasons. He grew as a captain there and that's the best thing about him," Rhodes said.Rhodes emphasized the importance of constant evolution for cricketers, noting that Rohit's success stems from his willingness to adapt and improve."Cricketers have to keep reinventing themselves. You are found out easily at the international level. I was dropped for two years from Test cricket because I had a technical issue.""If you look at Rohit, so much cricket has been played that if you don't evolve, you are going to be stuck. People are going to figure you out," he added.India will face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series starting September 19, where Rohit's leadership and witty remarks will undoubtedly be on display.

Former South African cricketer and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fielding coach Jonty Rhodes has heaped praise on young Indian pacer Mayank Yadav, calling him the "Rolls Royce" of the IPL franchise. Yadav, a product of Delhi's Sonnet Cricket Club, made a stunning debut for LSG in IPL 2024, showcasing his raw pace and impressive skills.In his debut match against Punjab Kings (PBKS), Yadav consistently bowled above 145 kmph and returned with figures of 3 for 27, including a top speed of 155.8 km/h. He continued to impress in the four matches he played for LSG, picking up four wickets with an economy of 6.99.However, Yadav's promising season was cut short by an injury against Gujarat Titans. He suffered a side strain, which was later confirmed as lower abdomen soreness, and was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament.Despite the setback, Rhodes believes that Yadav has immense potential and is a valuable asset for LSG. "He's like the Rolls Royce of bowlers, similar to how we used to call Allan Donald a Rolls Royce," Rhodes said. "He had a whole season with the team and that's why the owners decided to keep him with the team."Rhodes emphasized the importance of managing Yadav's workload and ensuring that he is physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of the IPL. "He doesn't need to bowl 30 minutes every day in the nets," Rhodes said. "He just needs to top up to make sure that he from a mental and emotional point of view feels that he's ready."Rhodes also highlighted the challenges that Yadav faces as a young pacer bowling to some of the best batters in the world. "You've got pace, but you can't bowl in good areas or with good skill, the better players will hit you out the ground," he said.Rhodes expressed his hope that Yadav will remain fit and available for the entire IPL 2025 season, whether with LSG or another franchise. "There's a talent that is exciting," he concluded.

Gautam Gambhir's tenure as India's head coach has witnessed a contrasting start, with a resounding T20I series triumph in Sri Lanka followed by a disappointing ODI series loss. However, former South African fielding legend Jonty Rhodes believes that these early results should not raise concerns among Indian fans and administrators.Rhodes emphasizes that any transition in leadership requires time for adjustment. He notes that India possesses the talent and depth to support Gambhir's coaching journey, allowing him to quickly establish his authority and achieve success.Rhodes' experience working with Gambhir at the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has given him insights into the former India opener's character. He describes Gambhir as a passionate individual who strives for excellence both on and off the field."He doesn't expect players to do something that he never did or he won't do," Rhodes said. "He's somebody who's not gonna be lenient with anybody unless it's required because he's expecting."Rhodes believes that Gambhir's unwavering pursuit of excellence and winning attitude will ultimately benefit the Indian team. He emphasizes that Gambhir's focus is not on personal glory but on the team's success.India's next assignment under Gambhir will be the two-Test series against Bangladesh later this month. Rhodes is confident that Gambhir will continue to learn and adapt as a coach, and that the team will eventually find its rhythm under his guidance.

Jonty Rhodes Weighs in on Rohit Sharma's Potential Move to Lucknow Super GiantsWith the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction on the horizon, speculation has been rife regarding the future of India captain Rohit Sharma. Rumors have suggested that Sharma may depart from his long-time franchise, Mumbai Indians, and join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).Jonty Rhodes, the fielding coach for LSG, has commented on these rumors, expressing his admiration for Sharma's abilities but emphasizing that his presence is not essential for the team's success."I mean, for a long time at Mumbai Indians, I felt I had the best job in the world. I got to watch Rohit Shama practice and play cricket. He is so elegant," Rhodes told ANI.However, Rhodes believes that LSG's focus should be on maintaining team balance rather than relying solely on individual star power."I mean, there's the balance of teams, who's in the side. I love watching Rohit Sharma bat, but I'm not saying he must come in and replace, and then suddenly we change our setup. So whatever, as I said, whatever happens, who is ever there? I'll be doing my best to support," he added.Rhodes also addressed the uncertain future of LSG captain KL Rahul, who has reportedly been reprimanded by franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka."Well, luckily, hypothetically, or in real life, that's as a fielding coach. I don't have to worry about that just now," he said.Beyond his coaching role, Rhodes has also been named the brand ambassador for the inaugural season of the Pro Cricket League (PCL). He remains committed to personal growth and improving his skills as a human being."I think what a learning curve is seeing if I can sit off the field. As a coach, you don't get involved during the game, but it leads to a part of the buildup, part of the preparation. So I will have to see if I have got the patience to be able to sit and watch the whole thing to still be able to do a little bit of coaching, but yeah, a very new role, and it's a part of evolving as an individual. As a cricket player, you always evolve. You have to work on your technique and your skills, so yes, I'm trying to improve my skills as a human being," he stated.

Zaheer Khan's Calm Demeanor to Benefit Lucknow Super Giants, Says Jonty RhodesFormer South African cricketer and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fielding coach Jonty Rhodes has expressed his belief that Zaheer Khan's appointment as the franchise's mentor will significantly benefit the team. Rhodes highlighted Khan's calm demeanor and experience as key assets that will enhance the team's performance."Zaheer Khan will definitely bring the calmness in the team," Rhodes said. "Having someone like Zak around will be of great help for the franchise. The team meetings, selections meetings, franchise meetings with owners, you need a calm head because the tournament goes up and down as per results. You need that support and consistency."Rhodes emphasized the importance of Khan's presence in maintaining a stable environment within the team, especially during challenging times. "The team is no longer a brand new franchise; it has been around for three years now, so obviously the pressure is there to perform," he said. "We need to achieve what we plan, to reach the playoffs. We haven't reached the final yet, so with Zak and his calmness, I think it will be very important for the franchise."Khan's technical expertise and bowling experience will also be invaluable to the team, according to Rhodes. "With the technique and bowling experience that he carries, he will benefit the franchise," he said.Khan joins LSG's coaching staff, which includes Justin Langer as head coach, along with assistant coaches Lance Klusener and Adam Voges. The team is currently without a bowling coach after Morne Morkel left the role to take up the same position with the Indian team.In the IPL 2024 season, Lucknow Super Giants finished seventh on the points table with seven wins and seven losses. The team will be hoping to improve its performance in the upcoming season with the guidance of Khan and the rest of the coaching staff.

Ravindra Jadeja, the versatile Indian all-rounder, has been hailed as the "best fielder" in modern cricket by former South African cricketer and Pro Cricket League brand ambassador Jonty Rhodes. Rhodes, renowned for his exceptional fielding skills, praised Jadeja's ability to excel at any position on the ground."When I talk of modern cricket, the best fielder it is surely Ravindra Jadeja," Rhodes declared. "He can field at any position. You can place him at mid-wicket, long-on, or at short cover. He is so quick on the feet that the batter fears when the ball goes to him."Rhodes emphasized that Jadeja's exceptional fielding abilities extend beyond catching and throwing the ball. "The things that matter in fielding is how quickly you reach to the ball," he explained. "And that is where Jadeja is best."Jadeja's fielding prowess has been a key asset for the Indian team in recent years. He has played a crucial role in India's victories in major tournaments, including the 2011 Cricket World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.Despite his retirement from Twenty20 international cricket, Jadeja remains a vital member of the Indian team in ODI and Test cricket. He is expected to return to the squad for India's upcoming Test series against Bangladesh in September.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Gautam Gambhir as the head coach of the senior men's cricket team. Gambhir's appointment comes after Rahul Dravid's tenure ended with the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2024.Since Gambhir's appointment, there have been speculations about the coaching support staff. According to reports, Gambhir requested the inclusion of Jonty Rhodes as fielding coach, but the BCCI declined the request. The board reportedly wants to maintain an all-Indian support staff.The current support staff, including batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip, saw their tenures end with Dravid's departure. However, the BCCI's plan to keep an all-Indian support staff suggests that Dilip may continue as India's fielding coach.Gambhir inherits a formidable Indian team that recently won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and finished as runners-up in the 2023 ODI World Cup and World Test Championship. He faces several challenges, including building camaraderie with former teammates like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.Gambhir's path to the head coach position has involved mentorship roles in the IPL, despite his lack of substantial coaching experience. This was also the case for Ravi Shastri and Anil Kumble when they were appointed to the top job in the Indian team.Under Gambhir's mentorship, Lucknow Super Giants reached the playoffs in consecutive seasons. He then moved to Kolkata Knight Riders, the team he led to two IPL titles, and guided them to the trophy in May.

Legendary South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, renowned for his exceptional fielding skills, is reportedly being considered for the role of India's next fielding coach. According to Revsportz, Rhodes' name has been circulating within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as a potential candidate.Rhodes' fielding prowess during his playing career was unparalleled, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest fielders in cricket history. His acrobatic catches and lightning-fast reflexes made him a formidable presence on the field.While no formal approach has been made to Rhodes, his name has been discussed as the BCCI prepares to finalize India's next head coach. Rahul Dravid's tenure as head coach will conclude after the T20 World Cup 2024, and the BCCI is actively seeking his replacement.Former India batter Gautam Gambhir has emerged as the frontrunner for the head coach position. According to media reports, Gambhir has agreed to the BCCI's offer, subject to certain demands. The announcement of his appointment is expected in the coming days.Rhodes previously applied for the fielding coach position in 2019, but the BCCI opted to retain R Sridhar. However, with the support staff typically selected by the head coach, Gambhir's appointment could pave the way for Rhodes to join the Indian team.Meanwhile, Paras Mhambrey and T Dilip currently serve as India's bowling and fielding coaches, respectively. Gambhir is expected to bring his own support staff, potentially leading to changes in the team's coaching setup.