The spotlight fell on the Indian skipper Rohit Sharma while continuing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25his extraordinary performance with the bat continues to raise eyebrows. Viral video showing Rohit’s struggle against the part-time bowler Devdutt Padikkal during the networking session, the criticism increased, fueling debate among fans and experts alike.
Rohit Sharma’s struggles during the nets session
The controversy arose after a video surfaced online of Rohit practicing in the nets and failing to connect effectively against Padikkal, who is mostly known for his batting rather than bowling. Right-arm spinner Padikkal, who is yet to score in professional cricket, troubling Rohit has created disbelief and frustration among his fans. The video became a topic of discussion with critics questioning how the Indian captain could have fared against such an unheralded bowler.
We present the video:
Rohit Sharma was beaten by part-time bowler Devdutt Padikkal in the nets 🥲 pic.twitter.com/6iGlPXO6Nl
— Jyotirmay Das (@dasjy0tirmay) December 22, 2024
Rohit’s struggles in the nets mirror his poor performance in the series so far. In three innings, the right-hander managed just 19 runs, with a highest score of 10. His inability to provide a solid start put too much pressure on a middle order that was struggling against an already strong Australian bowling attack. The Indian skipper’s lack of consistency has made fans question his place in the XI, especially given the critical nature of the ongoing series.
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Series ahead of Boxing Day Test
In addition to criticism of his batting, Rohit’s leadership is also under the scanner. India are currently in a precarious position as they are tied 1-1 after three matches. He ensured the victory in the first Test held under the leadership of the team jasprit bumrahas Rohit was unavailable due to personal commitments. Since returning to the captaincy in the second Test in Adelaide, India have lost and drawn in Brisbane. Fans and pundits are now debating whether Rohit’s return as captain will spoil the team’s momentum.
With two matches left in the series, including the much-anticipated Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, the pressure is mounting on Rohit to deliver. The captain’s form with the bat and tactical decisions on the field will be under severe scrutiny as the Indian team prepares for the crucial encounter. A strong performance in Melbourne could help silence his critics and reignite India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign.
