Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized : The first Test between India and New Zealand in the ongoing series has sparked widespread debate, with India’s performance and team selection coming under heavy scrutiny. The Indian side suffered a crushing defeat, collapsing for just 46 runs in their first innings, and questions have been raised regarding the omission of promising young pacer Akash Deep from the playing XI. Former cricketer Manoj Tiwary is among those who have criticized captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir for their decision-making, suggesting that the team’s strategy and selection were flawed.
Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
India’s Collapse and Akash Deep’s Omission: A Strategic Blunder?
India’s batting failure was the main talking point after they were bundled out for 46 in their first innings. However, the bowling department was also placed under the microscope as New Zealand piled on 402 runs in response. Manoj Tiwary has pointed out that team selection played a crucial role in this poor showing. Specifically, Tiwary questioned the exclusion of Akash Deep, who had been impressive during India’s recent series against Bangladesh, but was not selected for the first Test against New Zealand.
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Tiwary argued that leaving out Akash Deep was a missed opportunity, especially given the favorable conditions on Day 1. “Akash Deep’s confidence must have taken a big hit when he found out he wasn’t part of the playing XI,” Tiwary stated in an interview with Cricbuzz. He emphasized that Akash Deep had been outstanding in the Bangladesh series and that his confidence would have been at its peak going into this match. According to Tiwary, Akash could have been a game-changer, providing India with the cutting edge they desperately needed against a strong New Zealand batting lineup.
Misjudgment of Conditions: Rohit Sharma’s Admission
After the defeat, Rohit Sharma acknowledged in the post-match press conference that he had misjudged the pitch conditions, a mistake that played a part in India’s underwhelming performance. While misreading conditions is not uncommon for captains, Tiwary emphasized that the coach’s role in guiding the captain during these moments is crucial. He suggested that Gambhir’s input could have helped steer Rohit toward better decisions, particularly when it came to team selection. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
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“Good captains also make mistakes because a lot of things go through your mind,” Tiwary said, “but the role of the coach in giving constant guidance is very important. I don’t understand why this didn’t happen.”
Rohit’s admission of error, coupled with Tiwary’s criticism, highlighted a potential communication gap between the captain and coach. A stronger partnership between the two might have resulted in better tactical choices, such as including Akash Deep to exploit the conditions that would have suited a pacer like him. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
Mohammed Siraj’s Worrying Form: A Sign of Fatigue?
While Akash Deep’s exclusion has been the main focus of criticism, Mohammed Siraj’s poor form has also raised concerns. Tiwary noted that Siraj has not taken a single wicket in the second innings of any Test match this year, a troubling statistic for a bowler who has previously been a crucial part of India’s attack. Tiwary suggested that Siraj may be struggling due to fatigue, both mentally and physically, and that the fast bowler could benefit from a rest to regain his sharpness. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
“Siraj has not picked up a single wicket in the second innings in Tests this year. It’s disappointing. He should have been rested for a few games to focus on his game,” Tiwary remarked.
This statement reflects the growing concern that Siraj’s workload may be affecting his performance. Tiwary’s suggestion to rest him for a few matches could help the bowler recalibrate and recover, ensuring that he is in peak condition for future games, especially as the series progresses. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
The Role of Common Sense in Selection Decisions
Tiwary’s comments also touched on the broader issue of team selection logic. He questioned whether the Indian management’s decisions were being guided by common sense, especially when conditions seemed to favor a pacer like Akash Deep. “Sometimes I don’t understand the decisions. Common sense seems to be lacking,” Tiwary stated. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
This lack of clarity and coherence in selection decisions has frustrated not just former players like Tiwary, but also fans and analysts. The omission of players who are in form, or the persistence with out-of-form players like Siraj, has raised doubts about the strategic planning within the Indian team. If this trend continues, India’s chances of turning the series around could be compromised.
Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir: Is the Partnership Working?
The relationship between the captain and the coach is critical in modern cricket, especially when making high-stakes decisions. In India’s case, the partnership between Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir is still relatively new, and their performance as a leadership duo will be closely scrutinized. Tiwary’s remarks suggested that there might be a disconnect between the two, particularly when it comes to team selection and tactical decisions. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
While both Rohit and Gambhir bring a wealth of experience to the table, their collaboration will need to be refined if they are to lead India to success in future matches. The cracks in their partnership were evident in the first Test, especially with the controversial exclusion of Akash Deep and the continued reliance on Siraj despite his poor form.
What’s Next for India? The Road Ahead in the New Zealand Test Series
India still has two more Tests remaining in the series against New Zealand, which gives them a chance to regroup and mount a comeback. However, for India to bounce back, significant questions must be addressed regarding selection, strategy, and player management. The exclusion of Akash Deep from the first Test has proven to be a controversial decision, and the team management may need to rethink their approach heading into the next matches. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
Resting players like Siraj, as suggested by Tiwary, could also help India field a fresher, more dynamic side. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir to see how they adapt their strategies and address the issues that were exposed in the first Test.
India’s response in the second Test will be critical, and their success will depend largely on how well the captain and coach learn from their mistakes, make informed team selections, and manage their players effectively. Rohit Sharma and Gambhir Criticized
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