NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer and national selector, Jatin Paranjape, maintains his faith in Rohit Sharma‘s capabilities, despite the captain’s underwhelming performance in the crushing defeat to Australia in Adelaide. He expects Rohit to bounce back in the three remaining matches of the series.
Returning to the number six position in Test cricket after a lengthy gap of six years, Rohit managed only nine runs across both innings at Adelaide Oval. His recent Test form has been concerning, with an average of just 11.83 in his previous six matches.
Rohit Sharma press conference after loss in Adelaide Test vs Australia
Questions have also been raised about Rohit’s captaincy decisions, particularly regarding his bowling strategies and field placements.
This was evident during Travis Head‘s dominant 140-run innings, where India’s tactical approach appeared passive, with minimal use of short-pitched deliveries despite Head’s known difficulties against such bowling, and defensive field settings.
“I know he’s had a really bad run in the last few Test innings. But I think form is temporary, and class is permanent. I have a very, very good feeling about Rohit Sharma coming good, as let’s not forget that he’s a Mumbai batter.
“They are known to kind of win against you when things are hard. I thought he was a bit off-colour in this Test match at Adelaide, but I’m sure that he will bounce back There’s nothing wrong in his batting, but he just needs to get an hour or two under his belt on the field,” Paranjape told IANS.
Rohit Sharma’s struggle continues
He also believes Rohit should resume his role as an opener in the third Test in Brisbane, starting on December 14.
“Being back in the opener’s slot is something which is a comfort area for him. So I expect him to come back into the top slot to open with Jaiswal and have KL Rahul batting at five. I also thought he was a bit off with his captaincy on the first couple of days and I’m sure he will turn it around in the next three matches to come.”