As India prepare for the three-match ODI series against South Africa, Rohit Sharma has opened up about the mindset that keeps him active even at this stage of his career. Ahead of the first ODI in Ranchi on November 30 (Sunday), Rohit Sharma talked about the hunger and discipline that still fuel him every time he steps out to represent the country.
Rohit clarified that his motivation never depended on age. Be it a 20-year-old newcomer or a 38-year-old senior today, the internal pressure to perform for India is constant. He said that wearing the Indian jersey even today brings the same enthusiasm as it did in the initial days.
Rohit Sharma reveals the mindset that motivates him ahead of South Africa ODI
“Look, the excitement and desire is not just now; every time you come out and represent your country, the excitement and desire is always the same. So, it doesn’t matter whether you are 38 years old or 28 years old,” Rohit Sharma said in a video posted by the BCCI on its official website.
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The former Indian captain also spoke about how ODI cricket demands a blend of different skills. Rohit said that ODI cricket is a mixture of the patience of Test cricket and the urgency of T20 cricket. As an opening batsman, he knows that the challenge starts from the first ball when the ball is new and swinging.
ODI cricket is a mixture of Test and T20: Rohit Sharma
Rohit further explained, “ODI cricket is a mixture of Test and T20 mixed together. So, you need to be so efficient to go out there and handle both the skill sets. Especially for me, because I open the batting when the ball is good, hard and new.”
I know the ball swings. So, you have to bring your Test cricket mentality there. Try to leave the ball as much as possible and play close to the body.”
Rohit Sharma says his competitive spirit remains as strong as ever
Reflecting on how there has been no change in his approach despite the gap between matches, Rohit said, “I started playing when I was 20. My drive was pretty much the same as it is now. The mindset of coming out and performing well, giving your best, giving whatever is inside you, whatever you have, has remained the same.”
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He signed off by saying, “Whether I’m coming after a month’s gap or whether I’m coming after six or seven months, the drive and the desire to come out and perform and do better for the team is always there. As long as I play this game, whatever format, wherever I play, it’s never going to happen.”
– “Keep getting better”
𝗢Passion, 𝗗Rive, 𝗜Intent, ft. @ImRo45 @imVkohli #TeamIndia Get ready for the ODI series
See | #INDvSA , @IDFCFIRSTBANK https://t.co/nHuZ8yPdH0
– BCCI (@BCCI) 30 November 2025
After dominating Australia tour, Rohit Sharma aims to make a big impact in South Africa ODI
Notably, Rohit retired from Test cricket earlier this year and last year he ended his T20I career with an ICC T20 World Cup win. Now, he is focusing only on ODI cricket, and was last seen in action in Australia, where he was the Player of the Series.
Now, the right-handed batsman will be keen to continue his form in the three-match ODI series against South Africa. After the Proteas ODI, Rohit is likely to play Vijay Hazare Trophy games before returning to the national team for another home series against New Zealand.