As India gears up for the second Test against Australia in Adelaide, a major decision looms regarding captain Rohit Sharma’s batting position. Having missed the opening Test due to the birth of his second child, Rohit returned to the squad and featured in a warm-up match against the Australia Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra. However, his brief and unconvincing innings has raised questions about where he should bat in the lineup.
Warm-Up Match Sparks Concerns
Rohit batted at No. 4 during the warm-up game at the Manuka Oval. Despite a cautious start, reminiscent of his approach during India’s successful England tour in 2021, his innings ended prematurely when he edged a delivery to first slip after chasing a ball outside off-stump. The 11-ball stay added to concerns about his current form, especially following modest performances in recent series against Bangladesh and New Zealand.
Meanwhile, opener Shubman Gill, recovering from a thumb injury, impressed with a commanding unbeaten fifty. His performance has bolstered his case for a return, potentially leaving India with a conundrum over how to structure the batting order.
Should Rohit Bat at No. 6?
Rohit left the opening partnership untouched, allowing KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal to continue their strong run after a record 201-run stand in Perth. The duo added a solid 75-run partnership in the warm-up, indicating stability at the top.
This has prompted suggestions that Rohit could reprise his middle-order role at No. 6—a position he last occupied during India’s 2018/19 tour of Australia, where he scored 37, 1, 63*, and 5 in two Tests at Melbourne and Adelaide.
Former selector Devang Gandhi has backed this move, highlighting its strategic advantages. “Rohit should slot in at No. 6, allowing Rishabh Pant to bat at No. 5,” Gandhi told Times of India. “This setup maintains a left-right combination in the middle order and suits Rohit, given that he started his Test career at No. 6. It’s easier for an opener to adjust to a middle-order role later in their career than the other way around.”
The Road Ahead
India’s think tank faces a tough call as they finalize the lineup for the Adelaide Test. While Rohit’s form in the warm-up may not be cause for immediate alarm, his role in the batting order could significantly influence the team’s performance. With Gill in fine touch and the opening pair delivering consistent starts, a middle-order role might be the best path forward for the Indian skipper.
