Indian skipper Rohit Sharma achieved his 11th Test century and his eighth as an opener during the first day of the Rajkot Test. The team finished the day at 326/5, with both Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja scoring centuries.
Rohit Sharma, registering his 11th Test century, formed a formidable 204-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on 110 at stumps. Rohit’s innings of 131 off 196 deliveries was adorned with 14 fours and three sixes.
Before this century, Rohit had been under significant pressure, having last scored a Test century in February 2023. His recent Test scores of 24, 39, 14, and 13 had raised concerns about his form. However, his century in Rajkot ended this string of low scores, providing him with much-needed relief.
Rohit’s knock was crucial because India lost wickets early in the game and two key players, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, were not playing. Jadeja, who had been out due to injury, came back strongly and supported Rohit well. He even scored a century and crossed the 3000-run mark in Test cricket.
Mohammad Kaif Hailed Rohit Sharma For His Powerful Knock
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif praised Rohit Sharma, stating that his 11th Test century was a strong reply to his critics. Rohit’s innings came at a crucial juncture for India, as they were struggling at 33/3 before he partnered with Jadeja in a vital stand.
“Muh tod jawab dena, Rohit ne muh tod jawab dia hai, people who criticised him should keep quiet. He has always silenced his critics with his bat. Whenever anyone doubted his calibre he scored a century like this. I would suggest people not jump to conclusions too early. He is a good cricketer”
Furthermore, Kaif also supported the BCCI’s recent decision to require players to participate in the Ranji Trophy. The new mandate states that Indian players competing in the IPL must also play in the Ranji Trophy to be eligible for IPL selection.
“I guess this move came a little late. It should have come early. Cricketers must give respect to their states and play Ranji. It should not be like ‘I want to play IPL but not Ranji’. The state which gave so much exposure at the time of your initial years, you must respect it,”
