Rohit Sharma became the first Indian captain to lose a home Test series against New Zealand last week, and Shikhar Dhawan stepped up to support the Mumbai batsman. The southpaw feels that it would be unfair to question Rohit’s leadership following a single series loss, particularly after he had guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup championship in June.
As captain, Rohit hasn’t had a particularly memorable home series versus New Zealand. Fans and experts alike have been perplexed by a number of his calls in the two Test matches against Tom Latham and company thus far. The 37-year-old began it by winning the toss and choosing to bat first in Bengaluru’s cloudy skies. The renowned Sunil Gavaskar referred to him as a defensive captain during the second Test in Pune because of his cautious field placements, which helped New Zealand score some crucial runs.
“We don’t feel the pressure you all discuss. We don’t obsess on wins or losses; that’s just part of the game, even though there is pressure involved. Speaking to IndiaToday, Dhawan defended his skipper and close buddy by saying, “I feel that’s neither a fair nor a practical approach towards anything.”
Rohit Sharma is an excellent leader who has been able to unite the team throughout the years, according to Dhawan, despite the series loss to the Blackcaps.
“That’s not how we think as cricket players. Furthermore, Rohit is an excellent leader who cares about more than just winning and losing. There’s a link, a bond between the squad and its leader, and they look up to him,” Dhawan said.
India will succeed in Australia, according to Shikhar Dhawan.
In the current three-match series, India is 0-2 after losing the first two Test matches against New Zealand. It appears that this has put their chances of making it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final in jeopardy. To advance to the final, they must win four of their final six Test matches, five of which will be against Australia, the reigning WTC champions.
One of the first two Test matches between India and the Australians will be played without Rohit. Dhawan claimed that the squad would perform well in Australia, despite the fact that some Indian supporters have hit the panic button. But the former India opener acknowledged that no matter whatever Test match he chooses to forgo, Rohit’s experience will be missed.
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“In Australia, India will do admirably. Naturally, his presence and experience will be missed whether or not he participates in the opening game. However, I have no doubt that the boys will do well because they are quite professional,” Dhawan said.
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