England’s series defeat by Rohit Sharma and company was attributed by BCCI President Roger Binny to Ben Stokes’ aggressive style of captaincy. After India secured a commanding 255-run lead with two wickets remaining on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala, the Three Lions are now 1-3 down in the series and in terrible shape.
According to the ex-Indian all-rounder, Stokes and the other English batsmen have taken the bulk of the blame for their choice to attack the skilled Indian spinners in batting conditions that are mostly difficult.
NDTV Sports cited Binny, who is in Dharamsala to observe the proceedings, as saying, “Well, the captaincy of Ben Stokes has been more aggressive, and I think that has been the reason for their downfall in the few Test matches.”
“Being so aggressive and trying to take on the Indian spinners in difficult times (situations) rather than hanging around and trying to make a big score,” Binny stated.
Rohit Sharma has shown great discretion. Roger Binny
Between 1979 and 1987, Binny played 27 Test matches and 72 one-day internationals. He was full of praise for Rohit’s strategies and the way he and his bowlers planned England’s destruction.
“Once again, Rohit Sharma has shown great tact. He had his bowlers do precisely what he wanted them to do, as you know,” the 68-year-old stated.
Even after giving up a 190-run lead in the first innings, England pulled off a stunning victory in the first Test in Hyderabad. Nevertheless, they have already lost three games in a row. After the Hyderabad Test, Binny felt that the tourists continued to play an aggressive style of cricket without changing their tactics, but Rohit showed a great deal of patience, which paid off handsomely for India.
“I don’t believe England altered their approach. They adopted an identical offensive strategy to that of the opening Test match. To be honest, though, I believe Rohit was more patient because he initially had the first Test in his pocket before letting it go. In the next two Tests, he showed enough patience to win both,” Binny said.
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