Even without the official captain’s armband, Rohit Sharma’s leadership on the cricket field remains undeniable. In the second One-Day International of the series against Australia in Adelaide, fans witnessed Rohit stepping up to offer animated and detailed tactical advice to off-spinner Washington Sundar, while Shubman Gill, the designated stand-in captain, focused on setting the field. This moment vividly demonstrated Rohit’s continued influence on India’s strategy and decision-making.
The pivotal incident occurred after the 33rd over. Rohit observed Sundar struggling to execute his bowling plan against the left-handed Australian batter, Cooper Connolly. He immediately approached the bowler, engaging in an intense, hands-on discussion, using various gestures to clearly communicate the necessary adjustments. Sundar absorbed the instructions silently and proceeded to implement them, as Gill concurrently handled the field placements. Reflecting on this, former India pacer Varun Aaron remarked on the importance of an off-spinner moving the ball away from a left-hander and bowling a touch slower, adding that captains typically convey such tactical directives.
Earlier in the same match, Rohit delivered a remarkable batting performance. After a disappointing dismissal for just eight runs in the rain-affected series opener in Perth, which had fuelled speculation about his World Cup form, the seasoned 38-year-old scored a patient 73 in Adelaide. His innings was instrumental in setting India’s total of 264 for 9. During this crucial knock, Rohit forged a significant 118-run partnership for the third wicket with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a brisk 71 off 77 balls. Their collaboration helped India recover swiftly after early losses of Gill (9) and Virat Kohli (0).
As the innings progressed, Axar Patel, promoted to bat at number five, added a valuable 44 runs from 41 balls, including a 39-run stand with Sundar (12). Towards the end, tail-enders Harshit Rana (24 not out) and Arshdeep Singh (13) chipped in with a crucial 37-run partnership off 29 balls for the ninth wicket. Despite these collective efforts, Australia successfully chased down the target in 46.2 overs, securing a victory with two wickets to spare. Adam Zampa was recognized as the Player of the Match for his impressive four-wicket haul.
Rohit Sharma’s exceptional on-field guidance and strong performance serve as a clear reminder that, irrespective of formal captaincy, he remains a pivotal and influential figure at the heart of India’s One-Day International cricket strategy.