In simplest words : Rohit Sharma as a test batsman doesn’t sounds good!
Under Virat Kohli Captaincy the track record of baffling selections continued in second test against Sri Lanka in Nagpur is well. In the first test at Eden Gardens Murali Vijay, who was the best Indian batsman in difficult pitches since last two years, surprised everyone, in Nagpur, the inclusion of Rohit Sharma as a number six test batsman was equally questionable.
Rohit Sharma, One of the best batsman of modern cricket in shorter formats, is also the only batsman in the universe to have two double hundreds to his name. Even greatest like Sachin Tendulkar couldn’t do this. Though, the million dollar question is : Did Rohit Sharma deserved a place in Test XI against Sri Lanka?
Rohit, 30, has played 21 tests so far and notched up 1184 runs with an average of 37. In 21 tests he has two hundreds and 7 half centuries. These statistics proves his test career is nothing more than ordinary.
However, it’s not about his statistics only. Even before Sri Lanka arrived to India for a seven week tour, BCCI made it crystal clear that they would use the series against neighbours as a preparation for upcoming South Africa tour.
Team India Will have to face fast bouncy pitches in South Africa, so BCCI prepared a greenish wicket at Eden Gardens. They fumbled, stumbled and match ended in a draw.
Question remains unanswered though! When team India preparing for South Africa, then does Rohit Sharma deserves to be included in the test side? Does he has the technique to survive in the South African pitches and a test batsman?
Suranga Lakmal, Dasun Shanaka and Lahiru Gamage proved to the World that even more accomplished Indian batsmen like Virat Kohli, Anjikya Rahane could be vulnerable against quality fast bowlers on bowling friendly pitches. So, what’s the logic to include Rohit Sharma in the team, when BCCI says their eyes on South Africa tour!
