In the cricketing battleground of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the second Test match in Adelaide has unfolded with a narrative that has seen both dramatic cricket and heated discussions off the field. India, coming off a convincing win in the first Test in Perth, faced a stern challenge in the second match, where they were bowled out for a modest 180. Mitchell Starc spearheaded Australia’s bowling attack, claiming an impressive 6 wickets. However, the spotlight wasn’t solely on the Australian resurgence but also on India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, who faced criticism on X (formerly Twitter) for his leadership.
Rohit Sharma, who missed the first Test due to personal reasons, celebrating the birth of his baby boy on November 15, returned for the second Test with a hope to steer India towards another victory. However, the narrative took a different turn when Travis Head, who didn’t get the chance to score a century in the first Test due to Rohit’s absence, made a significant impact by scoring a century in this match. Head’s performance was a testament to Australia’s strong comeback, highlighting their capability to bounce back from an earlier defeat.
Rohit Sharma as Test captain has always lacked a spark. Do you think it’s time for Jasprit Bumrah to permanently take over? Many might argue he won’t play all matches. Yes, but he would play all the important games. When he’s rested, Rishabh Pant can take over. Thoughts? #BGT
— Mohsin Kamal (@64MohsinKamal) December 6, 2024
Rohit sharma gave 4 overs to Bumrah in that session.
Seems like a case of sabotage. The team looks listless, he has no enthusiasm. Suddenly the team looks like playing the 4th Test after losing 0-3 at home.
— Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) December 7, 2024
Made bumrah bowl 8 consecutive overs on day 5 pitch in India while having Ashwin in team .
Didn’t even give a 2nd spell before lunch at Adelaide .
Mahanayak captain Rohit sharma for u .👏
— Manas26 (@Manas263) December 7, 2024
“Rohit has no plans for Travis Head” – Justin Langer
𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗶𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱 against India
When Rohit Sharma is not Captain :
0 century in Last 25 inningsWhen Rohit Sharma is Captain
3 centuries in Last 3 Innings* pic.twitter.com/qsW4HTBqn7— Cricket Ception (@cricket_ception) December 7, 2024
Travis Head has a beautiful wife but still chooses Rohit Sharma over her every time pic.twitter.com/35dp046au7
— ` (@chixxsays) December 7, 2024
This is pathetic captaincy by Rohit Sharma. Firstly I don’t understand this obsession that Gautam Gambhir has with Harshit Rana. He has been average and now after a terrific spell by Bumrah rather than getting Ashwin, Sharma gets Rana who bowls half volleys and relieves the…
— Aadit Kapadia (@ask0704) December 7, 2024
Rohit Sharma should leave test captaincy for sanity of Indian Cricket and it Fans…there’s no shame in accepting that you aren’t cut for the job!!
He’s mind boggling awful!
— Gagan Chawla (@toecrushrzzz) December 7, 2024
Travis Head 🗿
Travis Head in T20i’s 🗿🗿
Travis head in ODIs 🗿🗿🗿
Travis Head in test 🗿🗿🗿🗿
Travis Head in RCB 🤡🤡🤡
Travis Head in ICC finals 🗿🗿🗿🗿🗿
Travis Head vs Blue teams 🗿🗿🗿🗿🗿🗿
Travis Head vs team captained by Rohit Sharma🗿🗿🗿🗿🗿🗿🗿 pic.twitter.com/yjrplXxZOV— 𝐒𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐲𝐚𝐬𝐌𝐒𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐧™ (@Itzshreyas07) December 7, 2024
Travis Head when he sees opposition captained by Rohit Sharma #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/eT0bfmhKMP
— Pakchikpak Raja Babu (@HaramiParindey) December 7, 2024
Travis Head vs India across formats:
When Rohit Sharma is captain: 766 runs in 9 matches, average 76.60
When Rohit Sharma isn’t captain: 702 runs in 20 matches, average 29.25
— Rahul Warrier (@rahulw_) December 7, 2024
The term “clueless captain” echoed across X, with fans and critics alike questioning Rohit’s strategies, especially in the context of Australia’s successful batting display. The criticism wasn’t without basis; India’s score of 180 was underwhelming compared to expectations, and the Australian batting, particularly Head’s century, showcased a tactical acumen that seemed to be lacking from the Indian side.
Rohit’s decision-making, field placements, and bowling changes came under scrutiny as Australia capitalized on their opportunities. The match situation, where India needed to assert dominance after their first Test win, instead saw them grappling with a resurgent Australian team playing good cricket. The innings by Travis Head not only underscored Australia’s batting depth but also put a spotlight on how India managed their bowling resources, which appeared to lack the necessary bite to counter the Australian onslaught.
The online trolling of Rohit Sharma reflects the high expectations and intense scrutiny that come with leading the Indian cricket team, especially in a high-stakes series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Leadership in cricket is as much about managing the game on the field as it is about handling the pressure and public perception off it. While Rohit has had his share of successful moments as captain, this match in Adelaide has sparked a debate about his current form and decisions as a leader.
As the match progresses, the narrative will continue to evolve. But for now, the focus on Rohit Sharma’s captaincy has turned critical, with many on X voicing their disappointment. The comeback by Australia, led by players like Travis Head, has not just added spice to the series but has also ignited discussions on strategy, preparation, and leadership. The remainder of the Test will not only be about runs and wickets but also about how Rohit responds to this challenge, both on the field and in the face of public opinion.