Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir (Source – BCCI)
After India’s disappointing loss to Australia in the Melbourne Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, both captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir have received criticism from all quarters. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to address the concerns about the team’s leadership and performance through discussions after the series concludes.
Rohit’s underwhelming performance with the bat has been an evident issue in the ongoing series. Across five innings, the veteran batter has managed to score 31 runs. His form has seen a dip since the home series against New Zealand and Bangladesh, with his average being less than 11 across the last 15 innings. The skipper himself opened up about the slump, mentioning after the Melbourne loss.
“Yes, as a batter as well, a lot of things that I am trying to do are not falling into place. But, mentally, it’s disturbing without a doubt. If you have come here, you want to successfully do what you are supposed to. If those things don’t fall in place, that’s a big disappointment,” he said as quoted by Cricbuzz.
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This poor run has not only affected his individual performance but has also impacted his decision-making as a captain, leading to questions about his leadership. Many have pointed to the continued exclusion of in-form players like Shubman Gill as an example of questionable selection calls under Rohit’s tenure.
Meanwhile, Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as head coach, has struggled to make a major impact. Under him, the team suffered a historic home whitewash against New Zealand, and the ongoing series in Australia has further brought up the inconsistencies. According to the report, Gambhir and Rohit may not be aligned on key decisions.
Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden mid-series retirement was another question over team dynamics, while sources revealed Gambhir had no role in Ashwin’s decision. The choice to field three all-rounders at the MCG and leave out Shubman Gill further exemplified questionable strategies.
The BCCI’s planned discussions will likely be into these issues to address both short-term and long-term strategies. Gambhir may be required to clarify his position on selection involvement and Ashwin’s retirement. As for Rohit, the focus will be on finding ways to revive his form and rebuild confidence as a leader.
Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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