Adelaide, December 8, 2024 – By Sunil Gavaskar
Adelaide is a name etched in Indian cricket’s history for moments of valor and resilience, but this Test will unfortunately be remembered for the opposite—a performance riddled with defensive captaincy, negative energy, and, most disappointingly, a lack of backing for the players.
India’s loss in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is painful, but what stings more is Rohit Sharma’s reaction to a moment that could have inspired the team. When Mohammed Siraj dismissed Travis Head after his century and a fiery exchange of words ensued, it was the kind of passion and aggression that Test cricket thrives on. Siraj wasn’t just bowling; he was competing, sending a message to the Australians that India wouldn’t back down.
Yet, in the post-match press conference, instead of backing his bowler, Rohit chose to draw a line:
“There’s a fine line between aggression and too much aggression.”
These words feel misplaced and, frankly, disappointing. Cricket is a battle of skill and mind, and moments like these are what create pressure, build narratives, and shift momentum. For a captain, it’s crucial to stand behind your players in such situations, reinforcing their confidence and showing the opposition that India won’t be intimidated.
Where Was the Support?
What Siraj did was not crossing the line; it was meeting the Australians on their terms. Australia has built its legacy on aggressive cricket, both in action and words, and for decades, we’ve seen captains like Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting, and Pat Cummins defend their players’ intensity, regardless of public perception. It’s not about condoning inappropriate behavior but about standing by your team in the heat of battle.
Rohit Sharma’s reluctance to back Siraj sends the wrong signal—not just to the bowler, but to the entire dressing room. It suggests that players may not find the unwavering support of their captain when they need it most.
This is a stark contrast to the leadership displayed in the Perth Test under Jasprit Bumrah. There, every player was encouraged to express themselves, and the result was a dominant performance filled with belief and fire.
Rohit’s lack of energy and defensive mindset on the field were already under scrutiny after this match. Dropped shoulders, passive field placements, and a general absence of urgency painted a grim picture. But his words in the press conference seem to confirm what many feared—an inability to inspire or rally the team.
When you’re up against a side like Australia, you cannot afford to appear passive or divided. Moments like Siraj’s fiery exchange with Head should have been turned into a rallying cry, a chance to galvanize the team and show the Australians that India wouldn’t be bullied.
Fans reaction :
Abey buddhe tmkc aukat mai reh bkl
Very Well Said Sunil Paaji!!
Thankyou for sharing my opinions to public. In today's times, where media houses make us speak their own words instead of truth but you're bringing out facts.
Truly appreciate your work.