Former fast bowler Dodda Ganesh has advised against India’s captain Rohit Sharma opening the batting in the crucial third Test against Australia at the Gabba. He believes it’s a risky move considering Rohit’s current form and the challenging Brisbane conditions.
India’s batting order has been a topic of discussion following their performances in the first two Tests. They were bowled out for 150 in the first innings of the Perth Test and 180 in Adelaide.
India won the Perth Test by a significant margin of 295 runs, thanks to centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli. However, they suffered a heavy defeat in Adelaide, losing by 10 wickets within three days.
There’s been discussion about Rohit returning to the opening position. He missed the first Test and batted in the middle order in the second, allowing KL Rahul to open with Jaiswal.
Ganesh expressed his concerns on social media regarding Rohit opening the batting.
“Rohit Sharma is already short of confidence and runs. Experts urging him to open at the Gabba is foolhardy, to say the least. The series is not being played in the sub-continent where he can throw his bat and get some runs. It will be a lamb to the slaughterhouse if he opens,” Ganesh posted on X.
Ganesh believes Rohit’s lack of confidence and the demanding Australian conditions could lead to further struggles.
Rohit’s performance in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) has been a subject of discussion throughout his career. In 46 innings in these conditions, he averages less than 30, contrasting sharply with his strong performances in the subcontinent.
While Rohit has experienced some success as an opener, his average of 37.8 in SENA countries in this role is significantly influenced by his performance in the 2021 series in England.
His impressive 127 at The Oval is a highlight, achieved through technical adjustments to handle swing and seam bowling. This innings remains a significant achievement in his career.