Rohit Sharma’s position in the batting order has become a significant talking point ahead of the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Adelaide. Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has strongly advocated for Rohit’s return to the middle order, citing his experience and versatility as key assets that could bolster India’s performance against Australia.
Middle-Order Experience
Rohit Sharma began his Test career in the middle order before transitioning to a highly successful opening role. Across 41 innings at No. 5 or lower, he has scored 1,474 runs at an average of 43.35, including three centuries. Shastri believes this experience makes Rohit an ideal candidate for stabilizing the middle order, particularly in Australian conditions where he has played crucial innings in the past. Shastri remarked that his experience is “priceless” and could unsettle Australia’s bowling attack.
Opening Dilemma
India’s successful opening partnership in the first Test between Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul has raised questions about whether reshuffling is necessary. Both batters excelled in Perth, with Jaiswal scoring a commanding 161 in the second innings, supported by Rahul’s steady 77. This has led many, including Shastri, to argue for maintaining the opening combination, allowing Rohit to bat lower down the order.
Strategic Advantage
Shastri emphasized that Rohit, as a leader, has the flexibility to assess where he would be most effective. He suggested that Rohit’s return to the middle order could exploit any weaknesses in the Australian bowling lineup under the lights in the day-night Test. This strategy aligns with Rohit’s ability to adapt and perform in high-pressure scenarios.
Team Dynamics
The team’s decision-making will also consider the return of Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test due to a thumb injury. Gill’s inclusion could strengthen India’s top order, giving Rohit the opportunity to anchor the innings at No. 5 or 6. Shastri has noted that this flexibility creates one of the strongest Indian batting line-ups in recent years, capable of challenging Australia across different match situations.