Delhi: Indian captain Rohit Sharma is once again under criticism for his decisions and strategies. After the announcement of Washington Sundar’s return in the Melbourne Test and the exclusion of Shubman Gill, questions are being raised over Rohit’s selection and decisions on the field. Be it the proper use of bowlers or the right strategy against the Australian batsmen, the Indian bowling attack failed to make a mark in the first two days.
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Shastri publicly criticized Rohit
During the commentary on the second day of the Melbourne Test, Ravi Shastri questioned Rohit and coach Gautam Gambhir’s decision to play two spinners. He said, “If the spinners were to bowl after 40 overs, then why take two spinners? In Melbourne, spinners should bowl 1-2 overs in the beginning. I did not understand why Jadeja and Sundar were made to bowl after 40 overs.”
Shastri raised questions on letting Bumrah bowl in the third over and said, “India should have started with Bumrah. Siraj’s confidence is low, so he needs to be handled properly.”
He also expressed his displeasure regarding Rohit’s field placement. “Mitchell Starc has come to bat and you have fielders at long on and long off. At least one should be brought up.”
Sunil Gavaskar also raised questions
Sunil Gavaskar also looked unhappy with the Indian bowling performance. He said that except Bumrah, no Indian fast bowler could leave his impact. Gavaskar expressed his displeasure over the new ball not being used properly and said, “Very ordinary bowling. If you want to put a bouncer, then put it near the badge of the helmet, not near the waist. The new ball was completely ruined. Especially Akash Deep bowled poorly outside the off stump. Apart from this, the fielding was also very loose.”
After this, Rohit himself decided to open India’s innings and sent KL Rahul down the order. But, the captain was out after scoring just 3 runs, and Rahul also returned to the pavilion on 23.