On the second day of the Test match, India skipper Rohit Sharma opted to bat first, even with overcast conditions in play. His decision raised eyebrows, especially considering the challenging weather. During the opening Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, Sharma’s choice to bat came under scrutiny as it appeared to be a misjudgment. The decision ultimately placed pressure on India’s batting lineup, as the conditions seemed more suited for bowlers. Many felt that choosing to field might have been the safer option.
Sanjay Manjrekar Questions Rohit Sharma’s Decision:
At the start of the match, Rohit Sharma made a questionable decision to bat first on a challenging pitch under overcast skies, which allowed the New Zealand batters to get comfortable and build significant partnerships. As the Kiwis ended the opening session with a commanding 299-run lead, many began questioning India‘s tactics.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his concerns on social media, critiquing Rohit’s captaincy. He pointed out a notable flaw in Sharma’s leadership, drawing comparisons to MS Dhoni’s approach. Manjrekar emphasized how Dhoni’s strategic mindset could have influenced a more favorable outcome.
India appeared to regain control on Day 3 after early wickets fell, with Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, and Matt Henry being dismissed. However, Rachin Ravindra and Tim Southee turned the tide with an impressive unbeaten stand, adding 112 runs off just 97 balls for the eighth wicket.
As frustration became evident on Rohit Sharma’s face, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar weighed in, remarking that Rohit could benefit from developing a key leadership quality that MS Dhoni excelled in—remaining calm under pressure and guiding his team through challenging phases.
He wrote, “ Dhoni had this very unique ability to preempt & make a bowling change before the damage went out of control. Rohit needs to bring that quality into his leadership. #IndvNz”
Rohit Sharma Talked About His Misjudgement:
At the close of Day 2, Rohit Sharma acknowledged in a press conference that his decisions had contributed to India’s current predicament. Taking responsibility for the team’s struggles, he admitted that his choices played a significant role in shaping the situation they now face in the match.
He said, “ We thought it wouldn’t help the seamers much after the first session or so. There wasn’t much grass either. We expected it to be much flatter than it turned out to be. It was a misjudgment on my part, and I couldn’t read the pitch well. I am hurting to see this score of 46 as a captain as it was my call to bat first. But one or two bad calls in a year is quite alright.”
Despite India making a stronger start in their second innings compared to the first, New Zealand’s commanding lead has put them in a dominant position. The Kiwis have moved closer to securing victory in the Bengaluru Test, with a clear advantage heading into the final stages of the match.
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