Will Virat and Rohit Come Back Stronger with Better Plans?
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Synopsis
As India grapples with a disappointing start in the ODI series against Australia, former assistant coach Abhishek Nayar shares insights on how senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can rebound. With a focus on strategy and intent, Nayar believes they will adapt and improve for the upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Rohit Sharma needs to adapt his aggressive style to varying conditions.
- Virat Kohli may consider technical adjustments for better performance.
- Experience and reflection are crucial for both players' success.
- Future matches will test their ability to bounce back.
- Strategic planning will be key in the upcoming games.
New Delhi, Oct 19 (NationPress) India’s senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli faced disappointing returns to international cricket during the initial ODI against Australia. However, former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar is optimistic that this duo will rebound with enhanced determination and more strategic plans in the forthcoming matches.
India experienced a seven-wicket loss in the rain-affected series opener, marking Shubman Gill's first game as ODI captain, stepping in for Rohit.
Nayar evaluated Rohit’s brief time at the crease, noting that although his aggressive mindset was evident, the prevailing conditions did not favor his typical style.
“At first, Rohit Sharma was cautious, yet he aimed to replicate his successful ODI cricket strategy from the past two years—playing with intent and aggression. Nonetheless, this approach was somewhat detrimental, as the conditions were not conducive to the shots he envisioned. I anticipate he’ll reflect on this experience, but I don’t foresee a shift in his strategy moving forward; he remains committed to playing aggressively,” Nayar shared on ‘Cricket Live’.
“With the hope that conditions will vary in Adelaide, he seemed to find his rhythm in this match. His balance and weight transfer were commendable. While shot selection could have improved, he was dismissed by a very good delivery. Intent is crucial; in white-ball cricket, getting out to a ball like that at second slip sometimes requires acceptance and moving on. Given his extensive experience, I am confident he will dig deeper and return stronger next time.”
Regarding Kohli’s dismissal, Nayar emphasized Australia’s tactical execution, especially from Mitchell Starc, suggesting that Kohli might benefit from some technical adjustments before the next game.
“Conversations will invariably center around playing square of the wicket in Australia. With the added pace, bounce, and lateral movement, it’s essential to let the ball arrive, play it late, and behind the body. This approach contrasts with Kohli’s usual method of taking charge and batting in straighter areas. Today presented a distinct challenge. Starc appeared to be one step ahead; he opted for hard pitches rather than the full and fast deliveries we typically expect, impacting the batter's strategy,” he noted.
“It's clear there were specific plans targeting Virat. In white-ball cricket, unlike the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where conditions had more grass and movement, this was about varying pace and angles. I’m confident Virat will review his footage and consider adjustments—perhaps batting deeper in the crease or focusing on third man could be more effective. We witnessed him adapt during the BGT, and I am sure he will reflect, adjust, and return with improved strategies to deliver the runs we anticipate.”
As India trails the series 0–1, the spotlight will be on their senior batters to respond when they face off again in Adelaide on October 23.
Point of View
The performance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is under scrutiny as they seek to navigate challenging conditions against Australia. Their experiences and adaptability will be crucial in the upcoming matches, and fans remain hopeful for a turnaround.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Rohit Sharma's key challenges in the first ODI?
Rohit Sharma struggled with the conditions that did not suit his aggressive playing style, leading to a quick dismissal despite showing initial intent.
How did Virat Kohli's approach differ in the ODI?
Virat Kohli's traditional strategy of taking charge was challenged by Australia’s pace and movement, prompting potential adjustments in his technique.
What did Abhishek Nayar suggest for both players moving forward?
Nayar advised both players to reflect on their performances and adapt their strategies to better suit the conditions in upcoming matches.
