NEW DELHI: In a dramatic turn of events at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia, led by the ever-dominant Nathan Lyon, has taken control of the fourth Test against India, leaving the Indian team in disarray and Captain Rohit Sharmaโs leadership in serious question. At 37, Lyon proved why he is considered one of the best spinners in the world, with a masterful performance that completely overshadowed a lackluster captaincy from Rohit Sharma.
Australia now leads by 333 runs, with all three possible outcomes still in play on the final day of the match. Lyonโs figures of 4 wickets for 55 runs were a testament to his skill and experience, frustrating the Indian batsmen throughout their second innings. His relentless pressure, combined with Scott Bolandโs steady seam attack, dismantled Indiaโs hopes of a successful chase, leaving the visitors fighting for survival.
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While Lyon orchestrated Australiaโs dominance, Rohit Sharmaโs leadership seemed painfully inadequate. Indiaโs batting, which initially looked promising, quickly fell apart under Lyonโs control. Rohitโs strategies, particularly his bowling rotations and field placements, were ineffective in stemming the tide. The Indian captainโs failure to adapt to the conditions or challenge Lyonโs spell only highlighted his limitations as a leader. His decision-making appeared indecisive and devoid of the sharpness required to steer India through a tough situation.
Rohit, who has been under scrutiny for his captaincy in the past, now faces mounting pressure after this collapse. Despite his calm demeanor, his lack of tactical awareness on the field was glaring. While Australiaโs leadership, guided by captain Pat Cummins and the experienced Lyon, has been sharp and proactive, Rohitโs approach seemed passive and reactive. This stark contrast in captaincy styles left India vulnerable, with no one to take charge in crucial moments.
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The Indian top order faltered under Lyonโs exceptional spin, but it was Rohitโs inability to inspire or motivate his team that truly exposed the cracks in Indiaโs strategy. Indiaโs inability to adapt to Lyonโs craft and their reliance on tired tactics were key contributors to their downfall.
As India prepares for the final day of the Test, the pressure on Rohit Sharma is palpable. With the series hanging in the balance, it is becoming increasingly clear that his captaincy could be the deciding factor in Indiaโs quest for victory. If his men donโt step up and deliver, questions about Rohitโs leadership will only intensify. With Lyonโs brilliance and Australiaโs superior leadership, India faces an uphill battle, and Rohitโs captaincy continues to look flat and ineffective.
