Kohli and Rohit Seek Redemption as India's Batting Duo Prepares for Mumbai Challenge
India's assistant coach Abhishek Nayar shared insights into the duo’s recent struggles and the team's commitment to supporting them through challenging times. He acknowledged that experienced players like Kohli and Rohit sometimes need time and space to regain their form.
Under the intense afternoon sun at Wankhede Stadium, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of India’s most celebrated batsmen, engaged in rigorous net sessions as they prepared for the third Test against South Africa. Despite their seasoned experience, both players are under increased scrutiny, with their performances falling short in recent matches. With only a day left before the crucial Test, India’s preparations suggest an urgent push for improved batting results on Mumbai’s challenging red-soil pitch.
The recent series has been tough for India’s batting lineup, with the team failing to perform in three out of four innings. The pair of Rohit and Kohli, who have a highest score of just 70 between them so far, face added pressure to step up their game in a city where they have both shone in the past. Kohli approached his net session with intense energy, facing spinners and pacers in quick succession. In contrast, Rohit maintained a more methodical pace, carefully going through his batting routines before taking a break.
Nayar discussed the team’s broader approach, emphasizing that India’s batting unit is focusing on “intent” and playing with aggression. He noted that this shift sometimes means facing unfavorable outcomes, but he urged patience, drawing on the perspective of former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir. “When you’re pushing for something new, you may face setbacks. But staying committed to the process often yields a long-lasting positive phase,” he remarked, underscoring the team’s efforts to push their limits.
India’s batting strategies have been evolving as the team works to emerge from a dip in form. Nayar expressed optimism about the team’s upward trajectory, suggesting that the lessons from recent struggles would eventually yield long-term success. In the Mumbai Test, Kohli and Rohit have a fresh opportunity to prove their mettle, leading India’s charge as the team aims to rebound from its recent setbacks and solidify its place in the World Test Championship standings.
