NEW DELHI: Australian pace great Glenn McGrath on Saturday commented on Rohit Sharma‘s decision to bowl first at the Gabba. The former Australian pacer expressed lack of surprise at the Indian captain’s choice.
“I’m not surprised that Rohit Sharma won the toss and bowled. He doesn’t want to get out there and bat.”
McGrath while speaking on ABC radio further elaborated on the potential repercussions of the decision, especially concerning public perception. He highlighted the difference in how the media portrays a failed batting versus a failed bowling strategy.
“The thing is if you bowl first and it goes pear shaped that looks really bad in the media whereas if you bat first and it goes poorly it is ‘gutsy decision to bat first’”
Rohit Sharma’s decision presented a tactical challenge, deviating from the conventional approach at the Gabba. Ricky Ponting, in a prior discussion on the ICC review, had outlined the usual strategy employed at the Brisbane Cricket Ground.
“Generally, the team that wins the toss in Brisbane will bat first, aim to post a big score over the first couple of days, and then wait for the pitch to offer more assistance to the bowlers later in the game. That is typically how teams play there,”
The Gabba has historically been a stronghold for Australia.
The team boasts a remarkable 31-match unbeaten streak at the venue, spanning from 1989 to 2020.
Despite recent setbacks against India and the West Indies at the Gabba, Ponting remained optimistic about Australia’s prospects of securing a victory.
Rain played a spoilsport on the opening day as only 13.2 overs of play was possible.
Australia were 28 without loss after continuous rain forced the umpires to call off the day’s proceedings early.
The ongoing five-test series is currently tied at 1-1. Australia emerged victorious in the second match in Adelaide, while India claimed the opening win in Perth.