Not many would have expected Rohit Sharam to make such a quick return to the international scene, to not only represent India but to captain its ODI outfit. Following the emotional victory in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa in June, less than one month ago, many expected the opener and along with other seniors to take a well-earned break. Well, that did sort of happen in India’s successful tour of Zimbabwe, but now with an away tour to Sri Lanka, the time away seems to be over.
But a turn of events, most notably the appointment of a new head coach, has meant that Rohit Sharma is back to lead a formidable Indian side in the three ODIs against Sri Lanka. It will be interesting to see how the veteran fares against an admittedly weaker Sri Lankan side. Now in the twilight of his career, with the Champions Trophy next year, this might be a good way for Sharma to show everyone why he has what it takes to lead this Indian side.
Gautam Gambhir: Each Player’s Must Earn His Spot
There was a lot of discussion following the departure of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from the T20 scene on what their future would look like in ODIs. Whilst the players had given no hint of retiring from the game, it was assumed that more young players would be introduced into the side, and big guns like Rohit Sharma would be taking a back seat of sorts.
But with the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the head coach of India, a different philosophy seems to be at play. All players no matter their seniority must be on call to represent their country. Even Jadeja’s exclusion from the ODI squad was explained away by team composition. Thus the thinking appears to be to give all players, regardless of seniority adequate game time. And for Rohit, it will be a dual responsibility of opening the batting and leading the team. Again.
Rohit Sharma – Still Has the Skills
There is no questioning Sharma’s ability as a cricket player. His explosive batting at the top and strong leadership have made him one of the best cricketers in world cricket. But now aged 37, the question becomes how well will he continue to perform as young stars rise the ranks. Since the Indian camp has decided to continue with Rohit’s leadership, it means the player will have to perform consistently. There will be no break time as a senior pro.
This is good for Rohit, who is a player who excels under pressure, but the question is: can he keep this up till next year’s Champions Trophy? As captain, Rohit’s place in the side is not going to be a factor, however, given the nature of the modern game, where selectors are more prone to test the bench strength of the squad, the next ODI tour may not feature Rohit Sharma in the equation. So time will tell how this arrangement will work.
A Series Win Against Sri Lanka – The Main Focus
In cricket, it is always first things first. India has a tournament against a weaker, but still dangerous Sri Lankan side. So the main goal for Sharam and Co would be to beat the opposition and move forward. And to do this Rohit Sharam has no shortage of talent to rely on, the question is how well will they perform on the day? It is a good bet that it will be a good one, so Sri Lanka better watch out since a 3-0 result is on the cards.
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