Rohit Sharma’s form has become a major concern for Team India, as highlighted by veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara. Speaking candidly about Rohit’s struggles with the bat, Pujara dissected the Indian skipper’s recurring technical lapses and mental approach, particularly in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test series against Australia.
What did Cheteshwar Pujara say about Rohit Sharma?
Analyzing Rohit’s dismissal on Day 4 of the 3rd Test at Brisbane, Pujara pointed out critical flaws in Rohit’s shot selection and footwork. “I think he’s playing away from his body. It wasn’t a length where you can drive. We have seen that even a fuller length ball is hard to drive, and he kind of tried to punch that ball. He should have defended that ball, allowed the ball to come to him rather than going for that ball,” Pujara remarked while speaking on StarSports.
The 23rd over of India’s second innings proved yet again to be Rohit’s downfall. Facing Pat Cummins, Rohit was lured into a tentative push against a full-length delivery outside off stump. The slight movement away exposed his indecisive footwork, and the resulting edge was comfortably pouched by Alex Carey behind the stumps. This marked the sixth time in 12 innings that Pat Cummins has dismissed Rohit Sharma.
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Mental pressure on Rohit Sharma?
Pujara also reflected on the mental challenges Rohit Sharma is grappling with, especially following a shift in batting position. Known for opening the innings in Test cricket, Rohit returned to the middle order at number six after being on paternity leave. While this decision was made in the team’s interest, Pujara believes it has disrupted Rohit’s rhythm and confidence.
“The tough part is he hasn’t been amongst runs, and that’s where the pressure is. He has been opening the innings, and now he’s batting at No. 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, you put yourself in that doubt,” Pujara explained. He emphasized how crucial it is for Rohit to stay composed and spend time at the crease: “Rather than looking to play shots, just try and stay a bit more composed and spend time with the crease.”
