India’s cricket captain Rohit Sharma made a rare public admission of error after a disastrous decision at the toss during the first Test against New Zealand. Rohit opted to bat first on a tricky pitch in Bengaluru, which led to India being dismissed for just 46, marking their lowest home total in Test cricket.
Misjudging the Pitch: A Captain’s Dilemma
The pitch was deceptive. With the first day washed out by rain and the surface covered for two days, Rohit expected it to favor the spinners later on. India’s lineup reflected that thinking, featuring three spinners and only two pacers. But things went wrong quickly.
Rohit admitted the misstep after the match, acknowledging that his call had backfired. “Sometimes you make the right call, sometimes you don’t,” he said. India’s collapse saw them stumble to 36 for 6 by lunch, a shocking outcome for the team on home soil. “I’m hurting a little bit because I made that call,” Rohit confessed. It was a tactical gamble that failed spectacularly, adding that “as a captain, it definitely hurts to see that number.”
The Spin Gamble Backfires
Rohit’s decision to play three spinners raised eyebrows. India named R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav in the starting XI, leaving out fast bowler Akash Deep. This strategy was based on the pitch’s bare appearance, where spin was expected to play a significant role. Rohit explained, “We thought it’ll take turn as the game goes on.” However, the fast bowlers, led by New Zealand’s Matt Henry, tore through India’s batting lineup in a relentless fashion.
Here’s what went wrong with the selection:
- Spinners struggled: Despite their impressive reputations, the spinners were ineffective as the conditions favored pace.
- Fast bowlers overlooked: New Zealand’s decision to go with more pace paid off handsomely.
- The pitch didn’t turn: India expected more assistance for spinners later in the game, but the surface remained more conducive to seam bowling.
India’s reliance on spin in these conditions didn’t pan out, leaving them facing an uphill battle.
Virat Kohli at No. 3: A Tactical Shift
A rare sight was Virat Kohli walking in to bat at No. 3, a position he had not taken in a Test match since 2016. This move was made necessary by Shubman Gill’s unavailability due to injury, and it presented a unique challenge. Kohli had a poor record batting at No. 3, averaging just 19.40 in his previous six innings at that spot.
The decision seemed bold, but it didn’t work out. Kohli was dismissed for a 12-ball duck, falling to a short-pitched delivery from New Zealand’s William O’Rourke. Rohit explained, “The experienced players have to take that extra responsibility, and this time it was Virat.” The intent was to allow Sarfaraz Khan and other players to bat in their preferred positions, but it was another miscalculation on a day full of them.
Rohit’s Press Conference: Facing the Music with Humor
Despite the grim situation, Rohit Sharma approached the post-match press conference with a light-hearted quip, “Chalao talwaar” [draw your swords], acknowledging the tension in the room. It’s rare for an Indian captain to address the press after such a dismal day, but Rohit didn’t shy away from the responsibility.
He emphasized the need for the team to dig deep. New Zealand ended the day 134 runs ahead with seven wickets in hand, and Rohit knew the team had to fight to stay in the game. “We want to not let them get away,” he said, highlighting the importance of keeping New Zealand’s lead in check.
Here’s the immediate focus for India:
- Restrict New Zealand’s lead: They already have a big lead, but minimizing further damage is crucial.
- Bat big in the second innings: India needs a massive score in their second innings to have any chance of making a comeback.
- Bounce back under pressure: Rohit’s challenge as captain is to rally the team, despite the setbacks.
Rohit’s honesty in taking responsibility for the team’s position could be a turning point, as the team looks to regroup and regain confidence after a dismal day.
