Sharma is thrilled to learn from Kohli

ROHIT Sharma has insisted captaincy isn’t on his mind, despite being named India’s viceskipper for their ODI series against Sri Lanka later this month.

The batsman has never officially been a part of India’s leadership group but has been named Virat Kohli’s No.2 after a decade in international cricket ahead of the series which begins on Sunday.

Rohit said: “It’s an honour to be appointed vice-captain. Ten years ago, I was only thinking about playing for India. Being vice-captain now feels really good.

“Whenever the opportunity comes, in the first ODI on August 20, there will be some sort of role I have to play. I’m looking forward to it. Rather than thinking too much about it, I just want to enjoy the moment.”

Since making his ODI debut in 2007, Rohit has gone on to play 158 matches as well as 21 Tests.

And though he has never taken charge of his country, Rohit has captained before. Since taking over from Ricky Ponting halfway through the 2013 IPL season, the 30-year-old has led Mumbai Indians to three titles in five seasons.

He added: “IPL is a completely different ball game and international cricket is completely different.

“But, yes, the excitement and energy remain the same, so nothing changes too much. In the IPL, I was captain, so I was more in front; here, I have to play a little behind-the-scenes role, but yes, I’ll be very excited to step on to the field as vicecaptain of the Indian team.

“Every day is a learning day. Initially, in limitedovers, I used to play too many shots at once. Now, I have realised it cannot be just about going out there and slogging every time, you’ve got to understand the situation and conditions.

“That is something I have learned these few years with the help of so many coaches around. I will continue to learn, you never stop learning. That’s the greatest part about this sport. There’s lot more to do and I look forward to it.”