Mumbai – The first Test match between India and South Africa concluded on the third day, marking India’s first-ever humiliating defeat in South Africa. South Africa secured victory by an innings and 32 runs, leading to widespread criticism of Team India.
Sports enthusiasts argue that India should have responded more robustly. This defeat also impacts India’s standing in the World Test Championship, plummeting from the first position to the sixth.
Additionally, India faces consequences for a slow over rate, falling short by two overs and incurring a deduction of two points. One point is penalized for each over bowled under the allotted time.
Furthermore, the authorities imposed a ten percent reduction in match fees. Amidst this, Rohit Sharma expressed his frustration during a press conference. Despite Sapshell’s personal struggles, questions arise regarding the bowlers’ performance.
Captain’s Critique: Rohit Sharma Addresses Bowling Woes and Emphasizes Team Effort
Rohit Sharma conveyed this message to the bowlers: “We made some mistakes while bowling. This wicket wasn’t one where 400 runs would be scored. We gave away a lot of runs. We cannot depend too much on one bowler. It is equally important for the other three bowlers to play their role. We should learn from how the opposite team bowled.” Meanwhile, Avesh Khan has entered the Indian bowling team, selected in place of Mohammad Shami.
Adapting Strategies: Rohit Sharma Highlights Challenges Faced in Practice Matches
Rohit Sharma explained the challenges faced in practice matches: “We have been playing practice matches for the last five or six years, trying to include first-class matches in our routine. However, the wickets in practice matches differ significantly from the one here. In practice wickets, the ball stays low, not rising above the knee, while here, it bounces over the head.
Considering these factors, we devised our strategy. Had the pitch in practice mirrored the actual match conditions, our approach might have been different. Over the past three or four tours, we observed that practice match pitches don’t replicate the match conditions.
Additionally, the bowlers we face in practice generally bowl at speeds of 120 to 125. Our own bowlers have a different style, and we plan to adapt and play accordingly.
