India’s captain Rohit Sharma faced criticism for his decision-making in the IND vs NZ first test in Bengaluru. His choice to bat first on a challenging pitch under overcast conditions proved harmful, first getting all-out on 26 runs and then allowing New Zealand’s batters to settle in and form crucial partnerships. As the Kiwis finished the first session with a huge 299-run lead, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar took to social media to voice his concerns regarding Rohit’s captaincy, drawing parallels with MS Dhoni’s leadership style.
Missed opportunities by Rohit Sharma – Manjrekar
Despite early breakthroughs with the dismissals of Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, and Matt Henry on Day 3, Rohit’s frustration grew as Rachin Ravindra and Tim Southee forged an unbeaten 112-run partnership for the eighth wicket off just 97 balls. Manjrekar highlighted the need for Rohit to cultivate the proactive decision-making skills that Dhoni demonstrated throughout his career.
“Dhoni had this unique ability to anticipate and make bowling changes before the damage spiraled out of control. Rohit needs to incorporate that quality into his leadership,” Manjrekar expressed on X (formerly Twitter).
Rohit Sharma acknowledging mistakes
At the end of Day 2, Rohit acknowledged his misjudgment during a press conference, admitting that he underestimated the pitch’s conditions. “We thought it wouldn’t help the seamers much after the first session. There wasn’t much grass either. We expected it to be much flatter than it turned out to be. It was a misjudgment on my part, and I couldn’t read the pitch well. I’m hurting to see this score of 46 as a captain; it was my call to bat first. But one or two bad calls in a year are quite alright,” Rohit admitted.
New Zealand in control at the Bengaluru Test
With a good lead established, New Zealand is edging closer to securing a victory in the Bengaluru Test, leaving India to reflect on their strategic choices.
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