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Discussions on Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir Set for Post-BGT Review
The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) has thrown light on several pressing issues within Indian cricket, particularly concerning captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir. With disappointing performances and questionable decisions overshadowing the series, discussions are set to take place after its conclusion.
Rohit Sharma’s Struggles in Red-Ball Cricket
A Dismal Batting Record
Rohit Sharma’s personal form in Test cricket has been under scrutiny for some time. The Indian skipper has managed just 31 runs in five innings during the current BGT series. This follows a similarly disappointing performance in previous series:
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91 runs in six innings against New Zealand (home).
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42 runs in two innings against Bangladesh (home).
In his last 15 innings, Rohit has scored only 164 runs at an average of less than 11, a stark decline for a batter of his caliber.
Criticism from Experts
Former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh has been vocal about Rohit’s form and leadership. Before the second innings of the Boxing Day Test, Waugh remarked:
“If I was a selector now, it depends on what happens in the second innings, but if he doesn’t make runs… I’d be saying, ‘Rohit, thank you for your service. You’ve been a great player, but we’re going to bring in Jasprit Bumrah as captain for the SCG.”
Although Waugh’s comments reflect frustration, the Indian management appears to be sticking with Rohit for the remainder of the series.
Rohit’s Response
Rohit acknowledged his slump and addressed the media after the MCG loss:
“Yes, as a batter, a lot of things I’m trying to do are not falling into place. Mentally, it’s disturbing without a doubt. If you’ve come here, you want to successfully do what you’re supposed to. If those things don’t fall in place, it’s a big disappointment.”
Comparisons with Other Players
The management’s decision to back Rohit is being compared to their handling of other players:
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Shubman Gill: Despite scoring 60 runs in three innings at twice Rohit’s average, he remains benched.
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Virat Kohli: Kohli has endured a prolonged lean patch, averaging less than 24 over his last 23 innings. The argument is that if Kohli deserves a longer rope, so does Rohit.
Gautam Gambhir’s Role Under Scrutiny
Questionable Decisions
As head coach, Gambhir has faced criticism for the team’s performance and selection choices. Some key issues include:
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India’s rare home whitewash against New Zealand.
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The decision to bench Shubman Gill and field three all-rounders at the MCG.
The Ashwin Retirement Saga
The sudden mid-series retirement of R. Ashwin has also raised eyebrows. While reports suggest Gambhir had no direct role in Ashwin’s decision, it has added to the growing unease within the team.
Lack of Selector Engagement
Unlike his predecessor Rahul Dravid, Gambhir reportedly avoids engaging in selection discussions. This detachment has led to speculation about his influence over team decisions.
A Tense Dynamic Between Rohit and Gambhir
Social media buzz indicates potential disagreements between Rohit and Gambhir, especially regarding selection matters. While these claims lack substantiation, the BCCI is expected to address these concerns after electing a new secretary.
Looking Ahead
Rohit is expected to lead the team in the final Test at the SCG. However, both his and Gambhir’s futures are likely to be discussed in detail once the series concludes. With Indian cricket at a crossroads, the decisions made in the coming weeks will have far-reaching implications.
For more insights into Indian cricket controversies, check out our Explore More Insights into Indian Cricket Controversies page. Additionally, dive into an in-depth expert analysis of Rohit Sharma’s Test Performances for a comprehensive understanding of his contributions to the format.
