In the ongoing third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australia has taken the upper hand against India, piling on over 200 runs with just three wickets down.
Steve Smith has gone past fifty for the first time in this series while Travis Head blasted consecutive centuries against the Rohit Sharma-led side, strengthening Australia's grip on the match at the Gabba, Brisbane.
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The series, tied at 1-1, has seen its fair share of tactical errors, and this Test appears no different. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has openly criticised Rohit Sharma’s field placements and inconsistent strategies, while Simon Katich and Sanjay Bangar have also shared strong views on India’s shortcomings.
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What did Sunil Gavaskar say about Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and field placements?
During his commentary, Sunil Gavaskar pointed out Rohit Sharma’s indecisive field settings, especially against Travis Head, who has been in blistering form. Gavaskar highlighted a specific instance where the gully fielder was moved to deep third man, only to be brought back later.
"Looking to close the stable doors after the horse has bolted. You just make it easy for him. You've seen him play the shot before. The gully fielder has to be sharp, and when the batter slashes, it comes like lightning. By keeping a fielder at deep third, Head will think twice before attempting that ramp shot."
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His comments underlined how India’s inconsistent tactics allowed Head to exploit gaps and keep scoring freely.
Sanjay Bangar adds to the Rohit Sharma's criticism
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar echoed Gavaskar’s sentiments, questioning the lack of consistency in India's approach.
“When you have a plan, you need to stick with it. Consistency that is required to be laying out a plan is missing at the moment,” said Bangar.
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This observation points to India’s recurring issue of failing to execute their strategies effectively, giving Australia an edge.
Simon Katich calls out "Dumb cricket" from India
Australia’s dominance was further highlighted when Travis Head played a ramp shot off a loose delivery by Mohammed Siraj, which went for a boundary. Commentating on the moment, Simon Katich didn’t hold back, calling it “dumb cricket” by the Indian side.
He questioned Siraj’s decision to bowl a delivery that clearly didn’t align with the field setting, allowing Head to capitalize yet again.
"That is dumb. Dumb cricket!"
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 15, 2024
Simon Katich didn't miss Siraj and India for this delivery that Travis Head ramped to the boundary...#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/tvGRG2CfIK
As Australia’s batters continue to dominate, questions around Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and India’s bowling tactics are intensifying. With Smith and Head at the crease and the scoreboard ticking steadily, India needs to regroup quickly to avoid conceding the advantage in this pivotal Test match.
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