#NewsBytesExplainer: Why Rohit Sharma's form is essential for Team India?
What's the story
Opener Rohit Sharma featured in the first Test against England that India lost by 227 runs. This was his first Test at home since November 2019. He returned to the Test fold in final two Tests against Australia following a long injury haul. Rohit, who hasn't yet capitalized upon his starts, would want to roar again as India bid for a comeback against England.
Performance
A look at his performance in the first Test
The English bowlers didn't let Rohit settle down throughout the first Test. In the first innings, he (6) chased a short delivery that nipped away as it found the edge of Rohit's bat. He appeared to be in decent touch after hitting a boundary off the previous delivery. It was Jack Leach who outfoxed Rohit with a ripper in the following innings (12).
Information
Rohit was sluggish while fielding
Rohit was sluggish in the field as well. In the first innings, he even dropped a regulation catch of Dom Bess. Rohit was himself in disbelief after dropping a dolly at mid-wicket. Notably, the former has been under the scanner for his fitness too.
Victories
His contribution in India's victories at home
It is interesting to note that India have lost their first-ever Test at home, with Rohit in the playing XI. Prior to this match, the hosts had won 13 of 14 games involving Rohit, having drawn one. In these victories, Rohit has tallied 1,210 runs at a formidable average of 86.42, including 6 hundreds. This illustrates the importance of Rohit in the Indian team.
Run
Rohit's incredible run helped India win consecutive Tests
Before the recently concluded Chennai Test, India had a streak of eight consecutive wins at home. Rohit was among the scorers in five of those games. In 2019, he was tried as an opener in Tests for the first time. The decision reaped dividends as smashed 556 runs at 92.66. He slammed two tons (176 and 127) and a blistering double-ton (212) against SA.
Start
India will bank on Rohit for a positive start
Rohit showed character with a brisk 52 in Sydney and 44 in Brisbane, but couldn't convert these into big scores. Such was the case with him in the opening Test against England too. If Rohit spends a bit more time in the middle, his lazy elegance might be the reason for India's comeback. One prolific start by him can help India gain momentum.