Following India’s defeat to Australia in the second Test, former cricketer Atul Wassan raised concerns about the inconsistent performances of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Wassan believes that both veterans must improve their performances consistently while adapting to the pressures of aging as expectations from them remain unchanged.
Rohit Sharma’s Struggles & Tactical Mistakes
Rohit Sharma’s decision to bat at number six has come under scrutiny following a string of underwhelming performances.
Return from Injury: Rohit, who missed the Perth Test due to the birth of his second child, has struggled since returning, scoring just 142 runs in six Tests at an average of 11.83.
Tactical Issue: Wassan labeled Rohit’s batting position as a “tactical mistake”, suggesting that opening would have better suited his skill set and mindset.
Potential in Australia: Wassan believes Rohit is better equipped to succeed in Australia when opening rather than being slotted down the order.
“Rohit’s mindset is not that of a middle-order batter. He should return to opening.”
Virat Kohli’s Consistency Questioned
Virat Kohli has also struggled in recent matches, managing only 315 runs in 14 innings during the current Test season at an average of 26.25.
Kohli’s struggles are highlighted by his repeated failures against deliveries outside off-stump, scoring just 7 and 11 in the Adelaide Test.
Wassan acknowledged that as age catches up, consistent performances become harder, but emphasized Kohli’s importance in the team’s structure.
“You cannot survive on past laurels and reputation. You must pull your weight.”
Pressure of Expectations on Aging Legends
Wassan further highlighted that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will inevitably see fewer exploits as they age, but their roles in adding depth to the team cannot be undervalued.
While their recent performances have been underwhelming, Wassan praised their leadership and experience but urged for better results. Age is inevitable, but performance must continue to meet expectations in crucial matches.
Team’s Batting Struggles in Adelaide
India faced another collapse in the pink-ball Test, with Mitchell Starc (6/48) exploiting the conditions expertly to skittle India for just 180 runs in their first innings.
Key Batting Issues: Except for KL Rahul’s 37 and Shubman Gill’s 31, no significant partnerships were established.
Counterattack from Head: Australia dominated with Travis Head’s (140 off 141) counter-attack, driving them to 337 runs, a lead of 157 runs.
Looking Ahead: Adaptation and Reflection Necessary
Wassan’s comments point toward strategic changes and mental adjustments needed for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they combat age and pressure in the longest format of the game.
Rohit’s batting position, Kohli’s consistency, and tactical adjustments will be key focus areas for India as they aim to bounce back in the series.
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