Rohit Sharma's recent resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL) seems to be closely tied to the quiet but effective mentorship of Abhishek Nayar, the former assistant coach of the Indian cricket team. Nayar, who was recently released by the BCCI, has since rejoined the Kolkata Knight Riders as part of their coaching staff, but his behind-the-scenes influence on Rohit’s performance remains significant.

A Game-Changer for Rohit Sharma

Before his two standout knocks in the ongoing IPL season, Rohit had struggled with inconsistency, posting modest scores of 0, 8, 13, 17, and 18. However, his recent return to form with a quick-fire 26 against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 17 and a blistering 76 not out against Chennai Super Kings on April 20 has turned heads. Sources confirm that Rohit and Nayar have been working together for some time, fine-tuning his fitness and batting technique to address key aspects of his game.

Their partnership reportedly extended into the IPL, with the pair spotted working together at the Mumbai Cricket Association’s BKC facility just a day before Rohit's impressive knock against Hyderabad. After the Chennai game, Rohit took to Instagram Stories to publicly acknowledge Nayar’s contribution to his form, underscoring the bond between the two.

Nayar's Coaching Style and Influence

Abhishek Nayar, known for his progressive approach to coaching and modern cricketing methodologies, has been instrumental in shaping the careers of several top Indian cricketers. Apart from Rohit, players like KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer have also benefited from Nayar’s insights, with Rahul publicly praising the former all-rounder’s influence on his white-ball game.

Nayar's expertise in fitness and batting mechanics has earned him widespread respect in cricketing circles, despite the BCCI's decision to release him from their support staff. Many senior players, including some close to Rohit, have expressed their dissatisfaction with his removal, especially considering his role in mentoring top players.

The Uncertain Future of the Rohit-Nayar Collaboration

While Rohit's partnership with Nayar seems to have sparked a revival in his batting form, it remains unclear if their collaboration will continue for the entire IPL season. Nayar’s recent move to a rival franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, raises questions about the long-term nature of their professional relationship. The Mumbai Indians and Knight Riders have already faced off once in the season, so their only potential meeting would be in the IPL playoffs.

Despite these uncertainties, Rohit’s recent success has shown that the combination of tactical advice from Nayar and his own skills can lead to match-winning performances. As Rohit eyes a long career that may extend to the 2027 World Cup, his collaboration with Nayar could continue to play a significant role in shaping his cricketing journey.