Former South African cricketer Daryll Cullinan has criticized Indian captain Rohit Sharma, labelling him “overweight” and a “flat-track bully” due to his fitness levels and inconsistent performances outside India. With Rohit struggling for form in the Border Gavaskar Trophy, Cullinan, minced no words.
Cullinan’s Critique of Rohit Sharma’s Fitness
Cullinan highlighted a noticeable difference between Rohit Sharma’s and Virat Kohli’s fitness levels, suggesting that Rohit’s physical condition is inadequate for the demands of international cricket.
“Rohit is overweight and not in good physical condition to endure a long Test series. Compare him to Virat, and the difference in their fitness levels is striking,” Daryl Cullinan, who is in India for Big Cricket League, told InsideSport.
Rohit ‘Flat-Track Bully’
Cullinan also criticized Rohit’s performance on foreign pitches, particularly in countries like South Africa and Australia, where he has struggled against pace and bounce. He remarked, “I think Rohit is a flat-track bully. Let’s look at his record outside of India. Every time he’s been to South Africa, you clearly get the feeling that he doesn’t like the short ball.”
Rohit Sharma’s Overseas Performance Statistics
- Rohit Sharma’s overseas Test record includes 1,622 runs in 29 matches at an average of 32.44, with a highest score of 127.
- In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he has scored 3,703 runs outside India.
- These figures contrast with his domestic performance, where he has been more prolific.
Recent Form and Team India’s Performance
Under Rohit’s captaincy, India has faced challenges, including four consecutive Test losses—three at home against New Zealand and a recent defeat in Perth against Australia. Rohit’s personal form has also been underwhelming, with 142 runs in his last six Tests at an average of 11.83.
These critiques have sparked discussions about Rohit Sharma’s fitness and effectiveness as a leader, especially in challenging overseas conditions.