Former India coach Ravi Shastri launched a no holds barred attack on Rohit Sharma over his decisions as captain in IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test. The move to play two spinners on a pace-friendly pitch left Shastri and former selector MSK Prasad baffled. Both criticised the team combination while speaking on commentary as Australia continued to frustrate India and go past the 400-run mark in the 1st innings.
Ravi Shastri lashes out at Rohit Sharma
Speaking on commentary during the lunch break on Day 2, Shastri questioned the need for India to play two spinners in Melbourne. He pointed out that Washington Sundar was brought into the attack only after 40 overs, while Jadeja too suffered a similar fate.
“What was the need of two spinners. Washington Sundar came into the attack after 40 overs. Jadeja came after 40 overs. You need to ask yourselves, if you needed two spinners,” Shastri said.
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MSK Prasad criticises Rohit’s captaincy
Ex-India chief selector MSK Prasad launched a tirade against the Indian skipper, over his poor form and captaincy decisions. Speaking on commentary, Prasad noted that Rohit came into the series after facing consistent failures, pointing out that India suffered an embarrassing 0-3 whitewash at the hands of New Zealand at home before coming to Australia. He further noted that Sharma’s form as a batter had been miserable and that it had a profound impact on the team.
He also lamented the fact that India were playing two spinners on such a surface, adding that the team should have rested Siraj and played Harshit Rana instead. He criticised Rohit’s choice of using bowlers and blamed the captain for wearing out his pacers with long spells.
Incidentally, Siraj did not look great in the first session and was getting smashed all around the park while also leaking runs with ill-directed bouncers. India’s best bet Jasprit Bumrah was not seen bowling in full tilt and was clocking deliveries with speeds of just 120-130 kmph.
