Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has been under scrutiny following his lack of substantial runs in the ongoing fourth Test against Australia. On Day 2 in Melbourne, he was dismissed for just 3 runs, continuing his recent poor form with only 22 runs in his last four innings. This has fueled speculation about his future, with some reports suggesting that he may retire from Test cricket after this series.
According to a report from PTI, Ajit Agarkar, India’s chief selector, is currently in Melbourne, and it is possible that he will have a conversation with Rohit regarding his future. The report also mentions that the popular belief is that Rohit may step away from the format if India fails to reach the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. The series, currently tied at 1-1, holds immense importance for India’s chances of making it to the WTC Final.
Former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar also voiced concerns over Rohit Sharma’s reflexes and overall fitness, indicating that his age might be catching up with him. After a sloppy dismissal in the ongoing Boxing Day Test, Gavaskar suggested that Rohit’s age could be a factor in his recent struggles.
Rohit’s decision to return to the opening slot alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal in the fourth Test, moving KL Rahul to No. 3, did not deliver the expected results. In just 12 balls, Rohit was dismissed for 3 runs after misjudging a short ball from Pat Cummins. His mistimed shot, which resulted in a top edge to mid-on, highlighted his struggles against the Australian bowler.
“Rohit is typically known for executing that pull shot with confidence, but in this instance, he appeared to hesitate, unsure whether to commit fully to the pull or adjust. This indecision led to a mistimed shot, and as is often the case with athletes who are 37 years old and have had sporadic game time, such lapses are more likely to occur. The lack of regular match play combined with the physical toll of age could explain the misjudgment.”Gavaskar commented during the broadcast.
