This morning I read a couple of articles about playing Rohit Sharma in the next test at Sydney. One that supports Rohit to play in the test and the other opposing playing him in the test. Both the articles had some valid points. I would like to express my view on the same subject. I have said this before but I would like to reiterate the same.
Let me start with the one that support Rohit to play
This was an interesting article in www.wisden.com. The article was written by Aadya Sharma. The writer throws up some valid points. First, the writer asks whether it is fair to break the combination that won the 2nd test against all odds? I for one certainly think that it does make sense. If at all Rohit has to come in, it must be at the expense of Mayank Agarwal. Agarwal had certainly had a wonderful start to his career but his returns in the series is abysmal.
It is not that India are playing at home and it does not really matter who plays with everyone capable of scoring runs. They are playing in Australia against one of the best attacks in world cricket. This not only calls for experience but for someone who can be aggressive at the top to unsettle the Australian pace attack. Rohit Sharma fits that bill and not Mayank.
Second, the writes adds that most of Rohit’s runs have come in India and that he averages a modest 26 in 18 tests outside of India. This is true but most of his runs in India have come in the last one year after he started to open the innings. Before his injury, he was the first choice opener and it is only fair that he gets to open again.
Third, the writes asks whether Rohit is good enough to walk into the team especially after a win. This question would certainly not have risen if Mayank has had a decent tour so far. In which case, Rohit’s inclusion would not have come up at all. However, with Mayank in poor form, Rohit will definitely not perform any poorer than him.
Fourth, the writes wants a longer run for Mayank despite his struggle. This is fair enough. Given his performance in the earlier tour, he does deserve a longer run. However, the current situation does not warrant a longer run. With Pujara, Vihari and to a certain extent even Rahane struggling for runs and Gill in only his second test, it only makes sense to fortify the top. We should also remember that India are playing 5 bowlers.
Fifth, the writes states that there is an impression that Rohit’s game is suited for the Australian pitches. It probably maybe true. Remember, the last time around, he played aggressively in the only test in Adelaide and his runs though not match winning but it certainly helped the team to achieve a reasonable score.
Sixth, the writes states that Rohit hasn’t played more than 100 deliveries regularly. Fair enough. He is someone who if he plays 100 deliveries can easily score 60odd which will give the team a good start.
Finally, the writes wants Rohit to wait just like how Vihari & Mayank waited after scoring tons of runs at the domestic level. The time is not ripe for that. If this series had been played in India, yes Rohit can definitely wait but it is not. The Indian team needs someone who is perceived to be able to play aggressively and will be able to score runs at the top.
Coming to the one which supports Rohit to play in the next test
Laxman is quite adamant that Rohit must play in the next test. Laxman feels that he will be a welcome addition to the squad at the expense of Mayank.
“Definitely one of the batsmen has to miss out. Rohit Sharma will probably come in place of Mayank Agarwal because Rohit has been a regular opener since the South Africa series. He has a tremendous record now as an opening batsman but I think it is a good headache to have,” said Laxman
“The Indian cricket team will be very pleased to have Rohit Sharma back especially when Virat is not there. You want more experience in that Indian dressing room. Now is the perfect opportunity first to go up 2-1 in Sydney and then win probably 3-1,” added Laxman
“If he gits his eye in, if he sees off the new ball, I am sure a big hundred is on the cards as far as Rohit’s batting is concerned,” concluded Laxman
Laxman is certainly excited that Rohit is back in the mix. He is not wrong in stating that Rohit will add experience especially in Virat Kohli’s absence. He has again repeated the same conception that Australian wickets will suit Rohit’s batting style. Laxman is someone who has played at the highest level for a longtime and he has performed in Australia. When he says something like that, it is worth a listen. Laxman is certain that is Rohit sees off the new ball, a big hundred is on the cards. I for one would certainly want him to get a hundred but that is a bit far fetched. I will be happy if he plays positive cricket and gives the team a good start with Gill. This will put pressure back on the Australian bowlers.
Conclusion
Rohit is somewhat an unknown quantity when it comes to test cricket. However, the situation that the team finds itself in does require someone like Rohit to play straightaway. Mayank is not scoring runs. Prithvi Shaw is technically unfit to play in Australia. Rahul has injured his wrist. India has a good chance to go 2-1 up in the series because the game will be played at Sydney which is known to assist spinners. Rohit can easily play the spinners. He might even nullify the threat of Lyon if he stays long enough at the wicket.