Rohit Sharma to be honoured with doctorate degree by Ajeenkya DY Patil University

Former India captain Rohit Sharma will be conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Letters (D.Litt.) by Ajeenkya DY Patil University (ADYPU), recognising his contribution to Indian cricket. The honour will be awarded during the university’s landmark 10th Convocation Ceremony, scheduled for this weekend.

The university had announced earlier that Rohit would be one of the highlights of the milestone convocation, and the ceremony lived up to expectations with a star-studded gathering. Presided over by ADYPU President and Chancellor Dr Ajeenkya D. Y. Patil, the event celebrated individuals who have made immense contributions across sports, culture, governance, and society.  In its official statement, Ajeenkya DY Patil University said the honorary degree was awarded in recognition of Rohit Sharma’s contribution to cricket and the values he represents.

“While fans know him as the ‘Hitman’ of cricket, today marks a different kind of milestone for Rohit Sharma. By bestowing this Honorary Doctorate, ADYPU recognises the values of resilience and strategy that he represents – qualities that resonate deeply with the graduating class of 2026,” the university said in a statement.

Sharing the stage with the cricketer will be several other distinguished awardees. These include Pankaja Gopinath Munde, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Environment, and Climate Change, Government of Maharashtra; Sudesh Aggarwal, Founder of the Sanatan Dharma Foundation, who is being honoured for his cultural contributions; Rashesh Bhansali, Executive Chairman of Goldiam International Ltd, recognised for his industrial leadership; and Manoj Pochat, a social entrepreneur, technologist, and strategic advisor.

Meanwhile, before taking over the Indian team, he had already made himself the most successful captain in IPL history, leading the Mumbai Indians to five titles. That success guided the way for his promotion to India captain following Virat Kohli’s decision to step down.

Under his leadership, India played a more aggressive brand of cricket, culminating in major triumphs including the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025. Several young cricketers have credited him for creating a relaxed team environment, building trust within the squad, and consistently backing players to perform freely. The veteran has retired from Test and T20I cricket but continues to represent India in the ODI format.