The spotlight has been firmly placed on the Indian skipper Rohit Sharma During the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25as his underwhelming performance with the bat continues to raise eyebrows. A viral video shows Rohit struggling against a part-time bowler Devdutt Padikkal During a web session, this led to increased criticism and intensified discussions among fans and experts alike.
Rohit Sharma's suffering during the nets session
The controversy erupted when a video surfaced online of Rohit training in the nets and failing to connect effectively against Padikkal, a player known primarily for his batting and not his bowling. Padikkal, who bowls right-arm off-spin and has never taken a wicket in professional cricket, was seen troubling Rohit, sparking disbelief and disappointment among fans. The video became a talking point, with critics wondering how the Indian captain could struggle against such an unknown player.
Here is the video:
Rohit Sharma was beaten by bowler Devdutt Padikkal in the nets 🥲 pic.twitter.com/6iGlPXO6Nl
– Jyotirmay Das (@dasjy0tirmay) December 22, 2024
Rohit's struggles in the nets reflect his lackluster performance in the series so far. Across three innings, the right-hander has managed just 19 runs, with a top score of 10. His inability to provide a strong start has put undue pressure on the middle order, which is already battling a strong Australian bowling attack. Inconsistency from the Indian skipper has left fans wondering about his place in the starting XI, especially given the critical nature of the ongoing series.
also Read: Steve Smith describes the BCCI and the International Criminal Court (ICC) in one word
Series on the line ahead of the Boxing Day Test
In addition to the criticism of his batting, Rohit's leadership is also under scrutiny. India currently find themselves in a precarious position, with the series tied at 1-1 after three matches. The team achieved victory in the first Test under his leadership Jasprit BumrahAs Rohit was not available due to personal commitments. Since his return to the captaincy in the second Test in Adelaide, India have suffered a loss and a draw in Brisbane. Fans and pundits are now debating whether Rohit's return as captain has disrupted the team's momentum.
With two matches remaining in the series, including the much-anticipated Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, the pressure is mounting on Rohit to succeed. As the Indian team gears up for a crucial encounter, the skipper's form with the bat and his tactical decisions on the field will be under intense scrutiny. A strong performance in Melbourne could help silence his critics and reignite India's campaign in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.