In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar shared his thoughts on the struggles of Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma during the ongoing series in Australia. Gavaskar also reflected on his own approach to batting and offered advice to the young duo of Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
A Legacy That Redefined Indian Cricket
Sunil Gavaskar is widely credited with transforming Indian batting. Before his debut in 1971, Indian cricket had its share of notable batters like Vijay Merchant, Vijay Hazare, and Dilip Sardesai. However, it was Gavaskar’s ability to dominate the world’s best bowlers with impeccable technique and remarkable concentration that earned Indian batting global recognition. By the time he retired in 1987, Gavaskar had set records for the most Test runs (10,122) and centuries (34), which were later surpassed by Sachin Tendulkar.
India’s Batting Woes in Australia
Reflecting on India’s underwhelming performance in the current series against Australia, Gavaskar noted the urgency and lack of adaptability in the Indian batting approach. “I feel there’s a certain rush in how the Indian batters are playing on these bouncy Australian pitches,” he remarked. He emphasized the need for patience, stating, “There is plenty of time in five-day Tests to assess the pitch and tire out bowlers.”
India’s top order has struggled, with only two centuries and three half-centuries across five innings. Gavaskar explained that the team’s aggressive mindset might be contributing to their inconsistency.
On Kohli’s Struggles with the Off-Stump Line
Virat Kohli’s dismissals outside the off-stump have drawn attention. Gavaskar attributed this to Kohli’s natural tendency to play the extra-cover drive, a shot that has brought him significant success. “It’s one of the most beautiful shots in cricket, but the late movement in these conditions has been troubling him,” Gavaskar noted.
He suggested that Kohli review videos of his past successful innings to regain confidence. “Rather than dwelling on dismissals, he should focus on the innings where he scored brilliant centuries to bring positivity into his game,” Gavaskar advised.
Rohit Sharma’s Bad Patch
Rohit Sharma has also struggled recently, with only one score above 50 in 13 innings. Gavaskar believes it is just a rough phase for the Indian captain. “He should watch his innings where he scored century after century. It will instill positive thoughts and help him bounce back,” he said. Gavaskar is confident that both Kohli and Rohit are just one good innings away from regaining their form.
Advice for Gill and Jaiswal
For young batters Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, Gavaskar emphasized the importance of patience. “Take your time. Focus on pushing for twos and threes with a straight bat instead of going for boundaries early in the innings. The longer you stay at the crease, the easier it becomes to find the boundaries,” he advised.
Lessons from Gavaskar’s Own Career
Gavaskar shared how he consciously put risky shots like the hook and square cut into “cold storage” early in his career. “The hook and pull were exciting but often risky. As I took on more responsibility, I avoided shots that could lead to unnecessary dismissals,” he explained.
Gavaskar also praised Tendulkar’s legendary restraint during the Sydney Test of 2004, where he scored an unbeaten 241 by deliberately avoiding the off-side shots that had troubled him in earlier matches.
Looking Ahead to the Boxing Day Test
As India gears up for the Boxing Day Test, Gavaskar expressed optimism that Kohli and Rohit would return to form. “Both these players have the ability to turn things around. All it takes is one good innings, and I hope it happens soon,” he said, echoing the hopes of Indian fans.
Sunil Gavaskar’s advice, grounded in a lifetime of cricketing wisdom, remains invaluable for India’s batting lineup as they seek to overcome their challenges in the series.
