India cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar recently suggested that Rohit Sharma should temper his natural inclination for big hits in the early overs when facing Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. According to Gavaskar, this controlled approach will be essential for Rohit to score runs and maintain stability at the crease, especially in the high-stakes scenario where India must win to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final.
In a conversation with Star Sports, Gavaskar emphasised that while Rohit’s strength in attacking shots could help him accumulate runs, only if he avoids risky plays early on, especially in challenging conditions against Australia’s formidable pace attack featuring the likes of Mitchell Starc.
“At the start, he can be troubled by Mitchell Starc’s lengths and lines. What happens often with Rohit is that his foot doesn’t move as much as it should in the first few overs of the contest, because of which he gets into trouble. But, if he can survive the first two-three overs, he can score runs. He needs to get the shot selection right. That’s not just for Rohit Sharma, but for any batter,” Gavaskar said.
“Like I said, Australian pitches are good for batters. And they use Kookaburra ball. It doesn’t swing or seam much after the first 15 overs. Test cricket is a five-day match. If you show some restraint in the first session, then you can score runs,” Gavaskar added.
Rohit’s performance on Australian soil
Rohit’s Test record in Australia has been a mix of promising starts and challenges in converting these into substantial innings. Across seven matches on Australian soil, he has accumulated 408 runs, averaging 31.38, with his best series performance in Australia coming during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. As an opener, Rohit’s composed 52 at the Sydney Cricket Ground was instrumental in helping India secure a draw, underscoring his ability to anchor the innings under pressure.
Facing a fierce Australian bowling lineup with Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, Rohit’s ability to execute his signature hook and pull shots could be a crucial advantage for India. Gavaskar, however, warns that Australian pitches, known for their bounce, will require Rohit to play selectively to avoid falling into traps early in the innings. By doing so, Rohit can mitigate the risk from bouncers, particularly from Starc, and build an innings that allows India to stabilize against Australia’s attack.
Although Rohit is likely to miss the series opener in Perth due to family commitments, and is yet to join the side in Australia, his presence in subsequent matches is expected to be vital. India’s hopes rest significantly on their captain’s ability to strike a balance between his attacking prowess and measured gameplay, as they aim for a place in the WTC final. Gavaskar’s advice could serve as a strategic guide for Rohit, whose runs at the top could provide India the foundation they need in this crucial series.
