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Rohit Sharma, India’s charismatic Test skipper and opening batter, has long been regarded as one of the most elegant and effective batters in cricket. His effortless stroke play, ability to dominate bowlers, and knack for turning starts into big scores make him a vital cog in the Indian batting lineup. However, 2024 has been a mixed bag for the skipper, with his recent poor form casting a shadow over India’s ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign.
A Promising Start Turned Sour
The year started on a high note for Rohit Sharma. In the first quarter, he smashed two centuries and a half-century in quick succession, underlining his reputation as one of the finest Test batters. His 131 against England in the third Test was a masterclass in batting, helping India secure a thumping 434-run victory. He followed it with a resilient 55 in Ranchi and another sublime 103 in Dharamsala, as India crushed England in an innings victory.
However, since March, the runs have dried up alarmingly for the Indian skipper. Across 12 innings in the last six Tests, Rohit has managed a dismal aggregate of 142 runs, averaging just 11.83. His scores of 6, 5, 23, 8, 2, 52, 0, 8, 18, 11, 3, and 6 paint a grim picture of his struggles.
Middle-Order Experiment Fails
Rohit’s supporters might point to his unfamiliar batting position in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia. In an uncharacteristic move, Rohit batted at No. 6 to accommodate KL Rahul at the top of the order. Rahul had performed admirably as an opener in Rohit’s absence, but the experiment backfired, with the skipper scoring a duck in the first innings and managing just 8 in the second.
Cricketing legends Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri have called for Rohit’s return to the opening slot, emphasizing that a player of his caliber is most effective at the top of the order. The third Test in Brisbane, starting December 14, could be the stage for Rohit to reclaim his place as India’s batting spearhead.
Impact on Team India
Rohit Sharma’s poor form has put significant pressure on the Indian batting lineup. As an opener and captain, his role is critical in setting the tone for the innings. His lean patch has left a void at the top, exposing the middle order to the new ball and placing undue burden on players like Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer to salvage innings.
India’s prospects in the World Test Championship (WTC) have also been affected. After the defeat in Adelaide, the visitors must win the remaining two Tests against Australia to stay in contention for the WTC final. Rohit’s influential position as an opener could be the key to turning the tide in India’s favor.
Can Rohit Rediscover His Form?
With two Tests remaining in 2024, Rohit Sharma has an opportunity to end the year on a high note. His supporters, as well as critics, will be keenly watching his performance in Brisbane and the final Test. For Rohit, it’s not just about silencing the doubters but also about leading by example and inspiring his team to victory.
Rohit’s journey in 2024 reflects the volatile nature of cricket. From a triumphant start to a frustrating slump, the year has tested his resilience as both a batter and a leader. If Rohit can rediscover his form in the coming matches, it will not only bolster India’s chances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also reaffirm his stature as one of the game’s greats.
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma’s poor numbers in the latter half of 2024 have undoubtedly hurt Team India. However, cricket is a game of comebacks, and Rohit’s class and experience make him capable of bouncing back. With the WTC final and India’s pride at stake, the next two Tests will be crucial, both for the skipper’s redemption and the team’s success. As Rohit takes guard in Brisbane, Indian cricket fans will hope for the stylish opener to deliver when it matters most.
