In the world of cricket, few names resonate as strongly as Rohit Sharma. Known for his ability to turn games around with his explosive knocks, the India skipper has often been the backbone of India’s success. However, recent performances have left fans and analysts alike questioning his form, especially in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) competition. As the Boxing Day Test approaches, Rohit’s dismal performance in the series so far has become a major talking point. While India are in a strong position in the series and continue to look to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC), the veteran opener’s lack of runs could pose a serious challenge in their quest for victory.
Rohit Sharma bowled out by part-time bowler Devdutt Padikkal in Nets_ pic.twitter.com/6iGlPXO6Nl
— Jyotirma Das (@dasjy0tirmay) December 22, 2024
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A captain struggling in the middle order
Rohit Sharma’s troubles in the middle-order are well documented. Sharma’s batting seems increasingly out of sync after deciding to move down the order many years after his debut. His returns in the ongoing BGT run have been far below what one would expect from a player of his caliber. After three innings, he had scores of 3, 6 and 10 – a far cry from the explosive performances fans are used to seeing. This recession is not an isolated event either. It marked a continuation of disappointing performances that began with the home series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, and the Australia match only further exposed his vulnerability.
Rohit Sharma’s 2024 stats: The harsh reality
Looking at these numbers, Rohit’s batting average in 2024 paints a worrying picture. In 24 Test innings this year, he has amassed just 607 runs at an average of 26.39. For a hitter of his stature, these statistics are hard to digest. The constant struggle seems to have shaken his confidence, and experiments to convert him to an intermediate order have so far proven unsuccessful.
With just two tests left in the series, the pressure is mounting. For India to successfully pursue BGT glory and WTC qualification, Rohit Sharma needs to find his rhythm again. His poor form has not only raised questions about his place in the team, but also his captaincy. Even though the team has a strong core, it still needs its leaders to step up and provide the desired stability.
Devdutt Padikkar Affair: A Symbol of Struggle
Adding fuel to the fire, a video from the Indian team’s practice session in Melbourne went viral, showing Rohit Sharma and Devdutt Padikkal. Struggles with off-spin. The delivery, while innocuous, completely deceived the Indian captain, leaving him in trouble and ultimately freeing himself LBW. Padikkar, a part-time bowler who had never taken a wicket in Test cricket, somehow outsmarted Sharma, a scene that later went viral on social media platforms.
The video prompted widespread reactions from fans and commentators, many of whom criticized Rohit for being “outdone” by a bowler with little experience. One Twitter user wrote, “OMG…he’s done…so embarrassing,” while others speculated that this could be a sign of Rohit’s diminished reflexes.
However, there was a lighter side to the incident. Some fans believe that Rohit, who is known for his selflessness, could allow young Padikkar to beat him to boost the morale of the youngsters. Regardless, the incident was a stark reminder of the difficulties Sharma currently faces at the crease.
Tough road ahead: Rohit’s injury woes
As if his form wasn’t good enough, Rohit Sharma also picked up a minor injury during a recent training session in Melbourne. While this has added to India’s woes, reports suggest that the injury is not serious and the skipper is expected to be available for the upcoming Boxing Day Test.
Rohit missed the first Test of the series as he was with his newborn baby and his return was less than ideal. After scoring just 3, 6 and 10 runs in the last three innings, the skipper now faces the daunting task of silencing his critics in the remaining Tests. The Boxing Day Test is expected to provide a better batting surface, which could serve as the ideal platform for Rohit to rediscover his form.