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Indian cricket legend Rohit Sharma's jersey No. 45 has become one of the most recognisable numbers in international cricket. However, not many fans know that the former India captain never wanted to wear this number initially. His first choice was jersey No. 19, but Rahul Dravid was already using it for India.
Recently, Rohit Sharma revealed the interesting story behind his iconic jersey number on the gaming reality show 'Family Full House with Rohit Sharma'. He explained how his original plan changed because of Rahul Dravid and how a phone call with his mother helped him choose the number 45.
Rohit Sharma's First Choice Was Jersey No. 19
Rohit Sharma revealed that he initially wanted a single-digit jersey number, such as 5, 8 or 9. However, by the time he got the opportunity to select his number, other players had already picked these options.
Eventually, he was left with jersey No. 19, which he really liked. Rohit wore this number during his Under-19 cricket days and wanted to continue with it after making it to the senior Indian team.
However, his plans changed after his selection for the national side, as his favourite number was already assigned to another player.
Rahul Dravid's Jersey No. 19 Forced Rohit to Change His Choice
After getting selected for the senior Indian team, Rohit Sharma was informed by one of his teammates that he could not wear jersey No. 19.
The reason was that former India captain Rahul Dravid was already wearing the same number. Dravid had established himself as India's No. 19, which meant Rohit had to give up his preferred jersey number.
This left the young cricketer searching for another number before beginning his international career.
One Phone Call to His Mother Changed Rohit Sharma's Jersey Number
After finding out that jersey No. 19 was unavailable, Rohit Sharma called his mother from the hotel that evening. He asked her to suggest a new jersey number for him.
His mother suggested that he choose No. 45. She had a special reason behind this recommendation. According to her, adding 4 and 5 gives 9, which she considered a lucky number.
Rohit liked his mother's suggestion and also found the combination of 4 and 5 attractive on his jersey. He immediately agreed and decided to make No. 45 his jersey number.
How Jersey No. 45 Became Rohit Sharma's Iconic Identity
Since making his international debut in 2007, Rohit Sharma has created several memorable moments while wearing jersey No. 45. From his incredible batting performances to his achievements as India's captain, the number has become closely associated with his cricketing journey.
Today, millions of cricket fans recognise Rohit by his iconic No. 45 jersey. Interestingly, if Rahul Dravid had not been wearing jersey No. 19 at that time, Rohit might have ended up with a completely different number.
What started as a simple suggestion from his mother eventually became one of the most recognisable identities in Indian cricket. Rohit's story also reveals how a small decision early in his career became a memorable part of his journey.
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