Rohit Sharma Shocks with ‘Bekaar’ Remark on Natural Talent in Cricket
In a candid and eye-opening interview, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has challenged the long-standing myth of natural talent in the sport, delivering a statement that has sent ripples through the cricketing world. Known for his composed demeanor and exceptional leadership, Rohit didn’t hold back when speaking to senior journalist Vimal Kumar, dismissing the idea of ‘naturally gifted’ players with a blunt ‘Bekaar hai’ (It’s useless).
‘Nothing comes naturally. To appear effortless takes a lot of effort,’ Rohit asserted. ‘People don’t see the grind, the hours of hard work behind what looks ‘natural’. Whether it’s being a player or a leader, it all comes from dedication, not some magical gift. I myself started as a bowler before finding my groove as a batter,’ he revealed, offering a glimpse into his own journey of transformation.
Rohit’s statement strikes at the heart of a romanticized notion in Indian cricket, where prodigies are often hailed as born geniuses. Instead, the 38-year-old icon emphasized that behind every breathtaking cover drive or tactical masterstroke lies relentless preparation and unseen toil. His words serve as both an inspiration and a reality check for aspiring cricketers who dream of overnight success.
With a staggering 11,168 runs in 273 ODIs, including a record-shattering highest score of 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014, Rohit has cemented his status as one of the greatest white-ball batsmen of all time. Under his captaincy, India clinched the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, showcasing his ability to lead from the front. These achievements, he insists, are the result of persistence rather than any inherent gift.
Recently, Rohit bid farewell to his Test career, retiring just weeks before India’s highly anticipated five-Test series against England, set to commence on June 20. Over an illustrious 11-year journey in the longest format, he amassed 4,301 runs in 67 Tests, including 12 centuries. His career-best knock of 212 against South Africa in 2019 marked a defining moment, especially after transitioning to an opener’s role in red-ball cricket.
Though his early Test years were marred by inconsistency, particularly in challenging overseas conditions, Rohit’s reinvention as an opener in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) was nothing short of remarkable. He emerged as India’s leading run-scorer in the WTC era with 2,716 runs and nine centuries, proving that success is crafted through adaptability and grit.
As Rohit steps away from Test and T20I cricket, he continues to helm India in ODIs, carrying forward his powerful message: greatness isn’t gifted, it’s earned. His career serves as a testament to the value of hard work over hype, inspiring a generation to focus on the process rather than the myth of talent. In an era where instant fame often overshadows diligence, Rohit Sharma’s ‘bekaar’ remark is a timely reminder that the path to glory is paved with sweat, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.