Rohit Sharma’s Form Concerns Dismissed As Batting Coach Shows Support
Despite Rohit Sharma‘s dismal performance in the current ODI series against England, India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has backed him. Kotak expressed confidence that the former India captain will provide a game-winning performance in the series finale at Lord’s, dismissing allegations that Rohit Sharma is under pressure to make the team.
Rohit’s form has been called into question following another poor effort in the second ODI on Thursday, July 16 at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. During India’s innings, the right-handed batter struggled to find a rhythm. He had a sluggish 26 off 47 deliveries before falling while attempting to sweep Will Jacks.
The innings highlighted Rohit Sharma’s recent troubles in the 50-over format. With only one half-century and an average of 30.12 in eight ODIs this year, the 39-year-old has raised concerns about his long-term future with the team as India prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Kotak, speaking to the media after India’s loss in Cardiff, remarked that a player like Rohit is unlikely to be affected by outside criticism. “I don’t think a player as big as Rohit can feel the pressure.” He’s too talented a player to feel that way. Yes, he has not scored in two games. I don’t think that makes a difference. But today, it appeared that he would get a good innings, which is fine,” Kotak remarked.
Furthermore, the batting coach denied that Rohit Sharma was struggling at the crease, claiming that his natural attacking approach was hampered by the pitch conditions and a lack of scoring opportunities.
“On any given day, there are many batters who do not gain the momentum they seek, and this is not uncommon. Rohit Sharma might play an entirely different innings at Lord’s. “I wouldn’t use the word struggling,” Kotak said.
He went on to remark that Rohit Sharma may have had to adjust his tactics because of Cardiff’s inconsistent bounce.
“He didn’t feel comfortable playing the shots he usually does on the up, most likely because to the double bounce. Shubman got off to a quick start, as did Virat, but Rohit most likely did not get balls in his slot. A player like Rohit would undoubtedly have a completely different innings. I’ve seen this happen to a lot of hitters, so it’s not just Rohit Sharma.”
After losing the first match of the series, England performed admirably in the second ODI. India posted a competitive total when batting first, with to strong contributions from the middle and top orders. However, England’s calm batting performance during the chase enabled them to tie the three-match series 1-1 by scoring with four wickets remaining.
With the series deadlocked, all eyes will be on India’s bid to regain momentum in the third and final ODI at Lord’s.
