Rohit Sharma’s Impact: Gavaskar’s Take on India vs England Test Series

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, expresses confidence in the potential impact of an in-form Rohit Sharma at the top of the order as India gears up to face England in a crucial five-match Test series. Following their recent two-Test series in South Africa, India is set to host England in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Rohit Sharma, the seasoned opener, showcased a return to top form during the Afghanistan series, notably smashing a record fifth century in a double Super Over thriller. Gavaskar, emphasizing Rohit’s pivotal role, believes that his stellar performance in the Chennai Test against England, where he demonstrated mastery on spin-friendly pitches, is a promising sign for India’s starts in the upcoming Test series.

The batting maestro expects Rohit to lead from the front and provide crucial starts, alleviating pressure on the middle-order batsmen. Gavaskar recalled Rohit’s brilliant hundred in Chennai, illustrating how to tackle spin-friendly conditions. He believes that if Rohit maintains this form, India can anticipate strong beginnings in the Test matches, making the task easier for batsmen at positions three and four.

Looking ahead to the Test series opener at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Gavaskar offers advice to Rohit as the captain. He emphasizes the need for Rohit to use his bowlers astutely, especially considering the typical conditions in Hyderabad, where limited turn is expected. Gavaskar suggests that Rohit’s strategic use of bowlers could be instrumental in shaping the outcome of the match, particularly if England establishes a successful start.

Examining Rohit’s Test record against England at home, the statistics underline his proficiency. Rohit has amassed 747 runs in nine home Tests against England, boasting an impressive average of 49.80. His two centuries and three half-centuries against Ben Stokes and company highlight his consistent performance in India. In the previous Test series against England, Rohit emerged as the second-highest run-scorer, accumulating 345 runs with an average of 57.50. His memorable knock of 161 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai showcased his ability to dominate the English bowling attack.

As the Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma’s leadership and batting prowess will be under scrutiny in the upcoming Test series. Gavaskar’s insights shed light on the strategic considerations and expectations surrounding Rohit as he aims to guide India to success against England.