Former India players Anil Kumble, Ajay Jadeja, and Aakash Chopra criticized India National Cricket Team captain Rohit Sharma's decision to start the day with pacers instead of spinners on Day 3 of the first Test against New Zealand. The three players expressed surprise and confusion over Sharma's strategy, stating that it allowed New Zealand batters to get comfortable and could result in runs being scored against the spinners later on. Despite having three world-class spinners in their team, India were struggling in the game with New Zealand about to reach the 200-run mark with six wickets in hand.
Clueless Captain Rohit Sharma's Blunder Costs India in New Zealand Test
Amidst a nail-biting India-New Zealand Test match, India's captain Rohit Sharma's puzzling decision to open the third day's play with pacers instead of spinners has drawn sharp criticism from former players.
Background
India entered Day 3 of the first Test against New Zealand at a crucial juncture. Having bowled out the Kiwis for 348 in their first innings, India had a slender lead of 14 runs. The pitch was expected to turn, favoring the Indian spinners.
Sharma's Controversial Decision
However, to the astonishment of viewers and analysts, Sharma chose to open the day with fast bowlers Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav. This decision baffled many, given that India had three world-class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel.
Criticism from Former Players
Former India leg-spinner Anil Kumble was scathing in his criticism, calling the decision "inexplicable" and "a blunder." Ajay Jadeja, a former India all-rounder, expressed confusion, saying, "It's like you have a thousand-rupee note in your pocket and you're showing off a hundred-rupee note."
Aakash Chopra, another former India cricketer, questioned Sharma's strategy, stating that it gave the New Zealand batters ample time to settle in and would ultimately play into their hands.
Consequences
Sharma's decision proved costly as the New Zealand batters took full advantage of the pacers. They milked runs and put pressure on the Indian attack. By the time spinners were brought into the attack, the damage had been done.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why did Rohit Sharma choose to open with pacers?
The official reason given by Sharma was that he wanted to surprise the New Zealand batters.
2. How did the New Zealand batters respond?
They played aggressively against the pacers, scoring runs and putting pressure on the Indian bowlers.
3. What was the criticism from former players?
They called Sharma's decision "inexplicable," "a blunder," and "confusing."
4. Did the decision ultimately cost India?
Yes, it allowed New Zealand to score freely and put themselves in a strong position.
5. What should Rohit Sharma have done differently?
He should have opened with spinners to exploit the turning pitch and put pressure on the New Zealand batters.
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma's decision to start Day 3 with pacers instead of spinners has been widely condemned as a major blunder. It highlights the importance of making sound tactical decisions in cricket and the folly of overlooking the strengths of one's team. As the Test series progresses, it remains to be seen if Sharma can rectify this mistake and lead India to victory.
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