Rohit Sharma's Struggles Highlighted: Harbhajan and Pujara Express Concerns Over Captaincy.
9 days ago | 5 Views
Indian cricket legends expressed their apprehensions regarding captain Rohit Sharma's performance following a disappointing outing in Adelaide, where the team faced a 10-wicket defeat in the second Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Madan Lal pointed out Rohit's declining statistics in the format, while Harbhajan Singh and Cheteshwar Pujara voiced concerns that this slump could impact his leadership.
Rohit had anticipated a triumphant return to the Indian squad, despite taking on middle-order responsibilities for the first time in six years. However, he encountered a harsh reality, managing only 3 and 6 runs in both innings of the pink ball Test. This performance followed a lacklustre series against Bangladesh and an unimpressive run against New Zealand. Over the last six Test matches since September 2024, he has accumulated a mere 142 runs at an average of 11.83, with only one half-century to his name.
In an interview with ANI, Madan remarked on the visible criticisms directed at Rohit due to his current form. "There will be questions regarding his performance. He has experienced numerous failures. He is an exceptional player, but scoring runs is essential," he stated.
Some experienced cricketers, including Ravi Shastri, suggested that Rohit's change in batting position might have influenced his performance in Adelaide. However, Madan dismissed this notion, asserting that regardless of his batting order, substantial scores are necessary to quell the criticism.
"At times, poor form can reflect on one's captaincy. While the form can change with a single match, he must score runs. His contributions are vital, irrespective of his batting position, as he is a world-class player. The only way to silence critics is through runs," he concluded.
'It could affect Rohit's captaincy'
Harbhajan and Pujara engaged in a discussion on Star Sports, expressing similar concerns regarding Rohit's performance. They highlighted the potential impact of his declining batting results on his captaincy, which faced scrutiny during the Adelaide Test.
"When a player of Rohit's calibre fails to score runs, it raises some concerns. We recognize his immense talent and the significant contributions he has made to Indian cricket. Nevertheless, he has struggled to accumulate runs in this match and the preceding series. A lack of runs inevitably increases pressure on the batsman," remarked the experienced off-spinner.
"It is crucial that the Indian captain does not feel the burden of needing to score runs, as this could influence his leadership. We hope he can regain his form soon. Conditions at other venues, such as Brisbane, may be more favourable for him. He must move past this match and focus on how he can improve moving forward, prioritizing the team's performance over his individual form," Harbhajan continued.
Pujara, meanwhile, expressed significant concern regarding the manner of Rohit's dismissals in both innings of the second Test. He was out LBW to Scott Boland in the first innings and bowled by a remarkable delivery from Pat Cummins in the second.
"There is a degree of concern. As an Indian supporter, I wish for Rohit to return to form swiftly. As Bhajju pa (Harbhajan) mentioned, the captain's batting is vital as it influences his leadership. I am somewhat worried about the way Rohit Sharma has been dismissed," he stated.
"He was out LBW in the first innings, and in the second innings, he altered his stance, which led to him being bowled. He will need to refine his technique, as he is getting out to deliveries that come in and those that move away from the same line," Pujara added.
In light of the defeat in Adelaide and Rohit's current form, it will be intriguing to see if India considers the 37-year-old for the opening position in the upcoming Gabba Test.
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