Sitanshu Kotak, India’s batting coach, has backed Rohit Sharma despite the seasoned opener’s poor performances in the current ODI series against England. Rejecting reports that Rohit Sharma is under pressure to make the team, Kotak voiced optimism that the former India captain can produce a game-winning performance in the series final at Lord’s.
Rohit’s form has been questioned following yet another poor effort in the second ODI on Thursday, July 16 at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. The right-handed batter struggled to establish a rhythm during India’s innings. Before stumbling while attempting to sweep Will Jacks, he amassed a sluggish 26 off 47 deliveries.
The innings highlighted Rohit Sharma’s recent struggles in the 50-over format once more. As India prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the 39-year-old has questioned his long-term future with the squad after scoring just one half-century and averaging 30.12 in eight ODIs this year.
A player of Rohit’s quality is unlikely to be affected by outside discussion or criticism, Kotak said categorically to the media after India’s defeat in Cardiff: “I don’t think a player as big as Rohit can feel the pressure.” He’s too skilled a player to sense that. He hasn’t scored in the last two games, yes. That doesn’t seem to matter at all. However, it appeared that he would have a strong innings today as well, but that’s alright,” Kotak remarked.
Furthermore, the batting coach denied that Rohit Sharma was struggling at the crease, claiming that the conditions of the wicket and the lack of scoring opportunities were impeding his natural attacking style.
“Many batters don’t get the momentum they want on a particular day, and that can happen. Rohit Sharma may have a very different innings at Lord’s. “I wouldn’t describe it as struggling,” Kotak continued.
He continued by saying that Cardiff’s erratic bounce might have forced Rohit Sharma to alter his approach.
“He didn’t feel comfortable with the shots he usually plays on the up, most likely because to the double bounce. Rohit most likely didn’t get balls in his slot, but Shubman and Virat both got off to quick starts. A player like Rohit could undoubtedly have an entirely different innings. It’s not just Rohit Sharma; I’ve witnessed that with many batsmen.”
England bounced back nicely in the second ODI after losing the first game of the series. Thanks to useful contributions from the middle and top orders, India was able to achieve a competitive total when batting first. However, England’s composed batting performance during the chase allowed them to score the goal with four wickets left, tying the three-match series 1-1.
All eyes will be on India’s bid to regain momentum in the third and final ODI at Lord’s now that the series is at a standstill.
