Rohit Sharma Faces Unprecedented Pressure in England – Can He Deliver?

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) cruises past the halfway mark and inches closer to the business end, the chatter around what lies ahead has grown louder. While fans bask in the emergence of a new generation of young cricketers, attention is also shifting to India’s upcoming Test series in England, set to begin in June. India’s last triumph there dates back to 2007. Since then, they’ve endured three losses and settled for a draw in their most recent outing.

Amid concerns over the availability of key fast bowlers, a faltering batting lineup, and a dip in India’s performance in overseas Tests, all eyes are on Rohit Sharma. The Hitman, as he’s fondly called, skipped India’s last Test in Sydney earlier this year due to a lean patch. His numbers in the 2024-25 Test season were underwhelming—164 runs at a dismal average of 10.93 across eight matches.

Rohit’s Test record in England paints a modest picture. In seven Tests, he averages 40.30, almost mirroring his career average of 40.57. His sole century in England came in 2021. While many doubted his ability to excel as a Test opener in England’s swinging conditions, Rohit silenced critics with a stellar performance that included a memorable 127, along with contributions of 83 and 59.

Now at 36, Rohit continues to shine in the IPL, steering Mumbai Indians’ resurgence after a shaky start. His prowess in limited-overs cricket remains unquestioned, but the same can’t be said for his Test performances. England’s challenging conditions could prove unforgiving for a batter grappling with form and technical issues. Remember Virant Kohli’s struggles in 2014?

Rohit’s place in the Test squad is bound to spark debates, leaving selectors with a tough decision. While it’s not easy to drop a player of his stature, he’s no longer an automatic pick. The bigger question is how to manage an out-of-form captain. Sitting out, as he did in Sydney, isn’t a viable long-term solution. With Rohit ruling out retirement, what options do the selectors have?

Jasprit Bumrah stepped into the leadership role in Rohit’s absence last season, showing glimpses of improvement under added responsibility. However, concerns over his fitness for a grueling five-Test series complicate matters. Shubman Gill, once touted as a future captain, isn’t ready to take the reins yet. Rishabh Pant’s recent dip in form further muddies the waters. In the face of limited alternatives, selectors may find themselves relying on Rohit once again.

Of course, India’s success in England won’t hinge on a single player. Simply put, batters need to score runs, bowlers must take wickets, and fielders have to hold their catches. But given Rohit’s stature, every move he makes—or decision taken about him—will be under intense scrutiny. Pressure will mount, perhaps in ways Rohit hasn’t experienced in his 67-Test career.

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