In a pivotal moment during India’s 2-0 series triumph over Bangladesh, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s captaincy once again shone brightly. Despite not posting big scores in his four innings, Rohit’s strategic mindset and leadership were key to India’s success. His desire to win, even in challenging situations, was evident, particularly in the Kanpur Test.
In the Kanpur match, Rohit demonstrated his intent to take risks, knowing that time was a significant factor with eight sessions lost due to bad weather. He boldly stated his willingness to be bowled out for 100 while pursuing quick runs to force a result. Rohit set the tone by charging down the track to smash the first ball he faced in the first innings for a six, exemplifying his aggressive approach.
However, it wasn’t just the opposition that posed a challenge; time was also a factor, and Rohit knew there was no room for complacency. India’s bowlers responded well by restricting Bangladesh to low scores in both innings, but a moment of frustration came during Bangladesh’s second innings on Day 5 when Mushfiqur Rahim, the former Bangladesh captain, played a defensive yet effective role.
Mushfiqur’s Resistance Frustrates Rohit Sharma
Mushfiqur Rahim’s game plan was simple: shield the No. 11 batter, Khaled Ahmed, from India’s relentless bowling attack. He skillfully managed to keep the strike by hitting boundaries early in the over and then taking a single on the last ball, repeatedly frustrating India’s efforts to dismiss Ahmed.
This strategy proved effective for a few overs, and Rohit’s frustration became visible. During one of Ravichandran Ashwin’s overs, Mushfiqur followed the same tactic, forcing Rohit to intervene from the slips. In an unusual yet clever move, Rohit shouted, “Chhakka marne de usko, Ashwin!” (“Let him hit a six!”). Rohit’s intention was clear—allow Mushfiqur to go for a boundary rather than risk him taking a single and retaining strike.
Ashwin heeded the advice and ensured Mushfiqur couldn’t steal a single on the final ball of the over. In the following over, Jasprit Bumrah bowled five deliveries to Khaled Ahmed but couldn’t dismiss him. Ahmed took a single on the fifth ball, giving Mushfiqur another opportunity. However, Bumrah had the last laugh, delivering a brilliant slower ball that clean bowled Mushfiqur on the final delivery before lunch.
Bangladesh was bowled out for 146, setting India a target of 95 runs. The Indian team chased it down comfortably in just 17.2 overs, with another stellar half-century from young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal sealing the victory.
Rohit Sharma’s leadership, both in tactics and execution, played a crucial role in India’s series win. His ability to think on his feet and stay aggressive, even in moments of frustration, demonstrated why he’s such an influential captain for India.
