Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma on Tuesday politely declined a fan’s offer of vada pav during a practice session, choosing instead to stay fully focused on preparations for India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.
Viral moment from practice session
A video that has gone viral on social media shows Rohit getting ready for training when a fan approaches him and asks in Marathi if he would like a vada pav — a snack closely associated with the Mumbai batter. Rohit responded with a smile and a polite refusal before resuming his practice routine, drawing admiration from fans for his discipline and focus.
Soon after the clip gained traction online, Rohit shared a photo on Instagram of himself batting in the nets, subtly underlining the hard work he is putting in ahead of the series, which begins on Sunday.
Intense build-up to New Zealand series
Rohit has been spending extended hours training after recently turning out for Mumbai in two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches. With the New Zealand ODIs approaching, the Indian opener appears determined to fine-tune his game and maintain peak fitness.
Selectors recently announced India’s ODI squad for the series, with notable changes including Shreyas Iyer’s return and Rishabh Pant’s inclusion, while Mohammed Shami was once again left out.
Landmark year for the ‘Hitman’
The former India captain enjoyed a remarkable 2025, marked by milestones and record-breaking feats. Rohit played a decisive role in India’s ICC Champions Trophy triumph, scoring a match-winning 76 in the final to guide the team to the title.
He also reached the top of the International Cricket Council ODI batting rankings for the first time in his career and became India’s third-highest run-scorer in the format.
Records and consistency
In November, Rohit surpassed Shahid Afridi’s long-standing record for the most sixes in ODIs, hitting his 352nd maximum during the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi. He now has 355 sixes from 279 ODIs.
Rohit signed off 2025 with 650 runs from 14 ODI innings at an average of 50.00 and a strike rate above 100, including two centuries and four fifties, with a highest score of 121.
As India gear up for another important series, Rohit Sharma’s quiet refusal of a favourite snack has come to symbolise his commitment — putting preparation before everything else.