Fourth Test: Captain Rohit Faces Criticism for Reaction to Jaiswal's Dropped Catches

Melbourne, Dec 29 (NationPress) Indian captain Rohit Sharma has faced criticism from broadcasters for displaying angry body language towards his young teammate Yashasvi Jaiswal, following a series of dropped catches on the fourth day of the Boxing Day Test.

Jaiswal, typically a reliable fielder in the third slip and gully positions, had previously dropped two catches from Usman Khawaja at leg gully. In the second session, after Jasprit Bumrah took three quick wickets, Marnus Labuschagne edged a ball to Jaiswal in the slips while on 46, facing Akash Deep.

However, Jaiswal missed a relatively straightforward catch, marking his second dropped opportunity of the day. Rohit reacted with visible frustration, raising his arms in exasperation and then glaring at the young player.

Virat Kohli also displayed his displeasure, while Akash voiced his frustration with a few expletives directed at Jaiswal. Former Australian batter Mike Hussey criticized Rohit's demeanor towards Jaiswal after the dropped catch.

“I have to be honest, I disapprove of the Indian captain’s reaction. I understand he’s passionate and eager for wickets, but as captain, you must convey a sense of calm and support. No one intends to drop a catch,” he stated on Fox Cricket.

“He’s going to feel bad enough for missing that catch, especially against someone like Marnus Labuschagne; these things happen quickly. A young player doesn’t need to witness that,” he added.

Alyssa Healy, Australia’s women’s captain, emphasized the need for the team to be supportive of Jaiswal, particularly as he will play a crucial role in India’s batting chase in Melbourne. “Especially when you need him to step up and open the batting to help secure a victory for his country,” she remarked.

Sadly, Jaiswal dropped another catch right before tea, this time from skipper Pat Cummins. Rohit's response was more subdued, though he still gave Jaiswal a blank stare.

In a discussion on ABC Radio, former Australian coach Darren Lehmann praised wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for his supportive approach towards Jaiswal after his dropped catches.

“Rishabh Pant was commendable; he offered a pat on the back and said, 'just hang in there, we all drop them.' What Jaiswal doesn’t need is Rohit Sharma and Kohli throwing their arms around. He’s just a kid,” he said.

Former Victoria wicketkeeper Darren Berry expressed on X that Jaiswal requires the backing of senior Indian players to regain his composure and uplift his spirits. “You have to feel for the kid; Jaiswal has dropped three catches today. He may have let slip three critical opportunities that could affect the game and the series. His best response is a match-winning innings when it’s his turn to bat later today for India. He needs encouragement from his senior players, not criticism,” he stated.