Zaheer Khan: Rohit Sharma to Juggle Opening Batting and Leadership with Tactical

As the highly anticipated India-England Test series approaches with only three days remaining, former left-arm fast bowler Zaheer Khan weighs in on the challenges and opportunities facing Rohit Sharma in his dual roles as the team’s opening batter and captain.

Reflecting on Rohit’s performance during the 2021 Test series against England at home, Zaheer points out that Rohit scored 345 runs in four matches with an impressive average of 57.50. Notably, his highest score was a remarkable 161 in the second Test at Chennai. In total, Rohit has accumulated 747 runs in nine Tests against England, boasting an average of 49.80, including two centuries and three fifties.

Zaheer Khan commends Rohit’s adaptability as an opener, especially in challenging conditions. He highlights Rohit’s ability to leave the ball effectively, particularly evident in the Chennai match. Zaheer notes the satisfaction derived from Rohit’s match-defining knock, where he played a pivotal role in securing victory for India.

As India prepares to face England in a five-match Test series, Zaheer emphasizes the strategic challenges Rohit will encounter, not only as a batter but also as a leader. Zaheer suggests that Rohit will need to collaborate with Rahul Dravid and the selectors to manage player rotations effectively throughout the extended home assignment.

Both teams are expected to strategize around player rotation, given the unique challenges posed by a five-Test series. Zaheer anticipates that Rohit will play a crucial role in planning the optimal use of resources, considering individual strengths in different conditions.

The upcoming series kicks off in Hyderabad on January 25, followed by matches in Visakhapatnam (February 2-6), Rajkot (February 15-19), Ranchi (February 23-27), and Dharamshala (March 7-11).

Zaheer Khan expresses confidence in Rohit’s leadership capabilities, highlighting his influence, impact, and effective communication within the team. He expects Rohit to lead by example, building on the efficiency and positive results observed during his captaincy in the World Cup.

In conclusion, Zaheer Khan reiterates Rohit Sharma’s proven leadership qualities and his ability to lead from the front, making him a reliable captain for the Indian cricket team.

–IANS