Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has expressed concern over Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s recent string of low scores, suggesting that the fatigued batter may benefit from a break before leading India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Rohit, who is set to captain India in the global tournament next month, has struggled with four single-digit scores in his last five matches for Mumbai Indians in the current IPL season. The 37-year-old has endured a demanding season, including a rigorous five-Test series preceding the IPL, with Mumbai Indians now almost out of contention for the playoffs.
Clarke believes that Rohit may be feeling the effects of fatigue and that a break could do wonders for him. However, as the Indian captain and a key player for Mumbai Indians, Rohit is unlikely to get a break.
“Rohit, being the wise judge of his own performances, will undoubtedly be disappointed, especially considering his strong start. In my view, he might be feeling a bit fatigued as well,” Clarke told Star Sports.
“A break to freshen up could do wonders for him, but as the Indian captain and a key player for Mumbai Indians, you’re not getting a break. He’s going to have to find form,” Clarke continued.
Clarke expressed confidence that it’s only a matter of time before Rohit returns to his usual form as a batter.
“He was in a great mood. He’s happy, which is a really good sign. He doesn’t seem to be struggling with his timing; it’s just a matter of getting out,” he said.
“With someone like Rohit, it’s only a matter of time before he finds his form again. Hopefully, he stresses less and focuses on his game because he’s too talented to keep missing out. He’s at his best when he’s timing the ball, rather than trying to force it,” he added.
Clarke also had praise in store for Rohit’s deputy for the World Cup and MI skipper Hardik Pandya, who returned with 4-0-31-3 in their seven-wicket win over SRH on Monday.
“In the last couple of games, he’s been taking wickets with his bowling, making some adjustments along the way. For an all-rounder, success in one department boosts confidence across the board,” Clarke said.
“This aspect is crucial for Hardik Pandya’s cricket in any format – he needs to contribute with the ball. Initially, he didn’t bowl as much as expected or desired in the first half of this tournament. However, in the last three or four games, he’s returned to form.”
Clarke also said Pandya used his bouncers effectively which is an essential weapon in his armoury.
“He used his bouncer effectively, which I love seeing because it is a strong weapon in his arsenal. He executed the basics flawlessly, which is not only beneficial for Mumbai but also for Indian cricket as a whole, as it will enhance his overall performance,” said Clarke.
