Pujara Comments on Rohit’s Struggles in Australia Series
India’s Cheteshwar Pujara has expressed his concern over Rohit Sharma’s performance during the ongoing Test series against Australia. According to Pujara, Rohit’s decision to bat at number 6 instead of his usual opening position has greatly affected his form. On Day 4 of the third Test in Brisbane, Rohit was dismissed for just 10 runs after facing 27 balls, when Pat Cummins sent his outside edge flying.
Cummins managed to unsettle Rohit with a short ball before delivering a perfect length delivery that led to the Indian captain’s downfall. Pujara pointed out that the delivery was not suited for driving and that Rohit should have defended it instead of attempting a shot.
"It wasn’t a length where you can drive," Pujara commented during an interview on Star Sports. "He tried to punch that ball but should have just let it come to him. Since he hasn’t scored many runs lately, that extra pressure can be a real challenge."
Pujara also highlighted that Rohit’s batting order switch could be a significant factor in his current struggle. Rohit moved down to number 6 to accommodate KL Rahul as an opener, which could be affecting his rhythm.
“Rohit has been an opener for a long time. Suddenly switching to number 6 makes it hard to maintain momentum. When you’re used to starting off, having to wait can create doubts,” Pujara added thoughtfully.
In the match, Cummins has now dismissed Rohit six times in just 12 innings. After Rohit’s departure, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja worked together to stabilize the Indian innings with a solid partnership of 67 runs. Rahul capitalized on a dropped catch by Steve Smith, who missed an easy chance on the first ball of the day. He managed to score 84 runs, displaying some beautiful strokes before being caught by Smith, who made a stunning catch at first slip. Jadeja, on the other hand, ended the session not out on 41, helping India reach 167 for 6 at lunch, still behind Australia by 278 runs.
