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Prior to the second Test match against South Africa, captain of the Indian cricket team Rohit Sharma disclosed his preference for batting as an opener or in the lower middle order, at No. 5 or 6. The No. 3 spot, which he feels is too similar to opening because the batter must come in early if an opener loses their wicket, is something he acknowledged he didn’t enjoy.
Sharma Charges Ahead
In light of India’s commanding victory in the first Test match by an innings and 32 runs, which would complete the series, Sharma’s remarks coincide with his readiness to captain his country in the second Test. In the meantime, the Proteas are playing for pride and to give retiring captain Dean Elgar a memorable farewell in his last Test match.
Sharma’s Batting Position Woes
Sharma has been one of the world’s best batsmen in the format and has had a great career as an opener, smashing three ODI double hundreds. His performance in Tests at the top of the order hasn’t been as steady, though. As an opener in 31 Tests, he has averaged 46.55, while at No. 3, he has averaged 53.42.
Even with the greater average, Sharma feels constrained at number three. He said, “I really don’t enjoy batting at No. 3.” “I prefer to bat first or considerably lower in the order, at Nos. 5 or 6. If one of the openers gets out at No. 3, you have to enter the game early, which is not how I really like to play.”
Opening or Lower Middle Order?
The best batting position for Sharma is still up for discussion. Given his strong average at the spot, some experts think he should remain at No. 3. Some contend that opening positions, where he can capitalize on the fresh ball, are better fits for his aggressive style. Others think he would be most useful in the lower middle order, where he can establish himself early on and pick up speed later on.
Sharma’s batting position will ultimately be determined by the demands of the team and the particulars of each game. His remarks, though, imply that he is not at ease at No. 3, so if the Indian team management wishes to extract the maximum performance out of their star batsman, they might have to look at other options.
Elgar’s Farewell Test
For South Africa, the second Test will be especially significant because it will be the last Test of seasoned captain Dean Elgar’s career. Elgar’s retirement will leave a significant hole in the South African batting lineup, as he has been a mainstay for more than ten years. The Proteas will be driven to give him a winning farewell, but they have a difficult task ahead of them against a self-assured Indian squad.
A thrilling matchup between two teams fighting for different objectives is anticipated for the second Test. Whereas South Africa will be hoping to win in remembrance of Elgar, India will be looking to win the series and establish themselves as one of the world’s best Test teams. It’s going to be an interesting battle between bat and ball, with Rohit Sharma’s batting position serving as a major plot point.
