WATCH: Rohit Sharma scolds Sarfaraz Khan for his casual approach while fielding without helmet

In a lighthearted yet crucial moment during the Ranchi Test, India skipper Rohit Sharma showcased his concern for his teammates, particularly Sarfaraz Khan. As India aimed to secure the final two wickets and claim the series victory, Rohit used his spinners. Operating with spinners Kuldeep Yadav, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja, he got engaged in a humorous yet instructive banter with young fielder Sarfaraz Khan.

Advertisment

In the 47th over, Rohit called Sarfaraz to change his fielding position from long on to silly mid-off. However, the young fielder decided to take a risk by fielding without wearing a helmet nearby. True to his expressive style, Rohit walked up to Sarfaraz, warning him against such a daring move and emphasising the potential danger involved. Umpire Kumar Dharmasena intervened, affirming that wearing a helmet in close fielding positions is mandatory.

Here is the video:

Rohit Sharma to Sarfaraz Khan for not wearing helmet:



"Aye, hero nai banne ka (hey, don't be a hero here)". 🤣🤣pic.twitter.com/f49Mb60cmi

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 25, 2024

Advertisment

The amusing part of this banter was Rohit's quip, "Oye, hero nahi banne ka" (Hey, don't try to be a hero). Commentator Dinesh Karthik shared the incident, highlighting Rohit's advice to wait for the helmet and avoid unnecessary risks in such positions.

"You could hear Rohit saying, 'Oye, hero nahi banne ka'. Very Rohit Sharma style to say it. Not the usual way here. There is no need to be a hero; wait for your helmet here. When you're fielding at that position, no risks, please. Get that helmet on. Even the umpire is letting Sarfaraz know that," Karthik commented.

Advertisment

Sarfaraz Khan got struck in the helmet!

The timely intervention by Rohit proved crucial, as only two balls later, a defensive shot from the batsman took an unexpected lift, striking Sarfaraz on the helmet with force. This incident underscored the importance of safety measures, especially in close-in fielding positions. Rohit's leadership not only ensured the well-being of his teammate but also lived up to a promise he made to Sarfaraz's father to take care of his son.

The incident also invoked memories of the tragic loss of Indian cricketer Raman Lamba in 1998, who succumbed to a head injury while fielding at short leg without a helmet. Rohit's vigilance and quick response reflected a commitment to player safety, reminding everyone of the risks involved in the game. In this banter, Rohit not only showcased his cricketing acumen but also his responsibility as a captain and mentor on the field.