In the aftermath of Team India’s disappointing loss in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, Indian captain Rohit Sharma has found himself at the centre of criticism. The defeat has sparked discussions about Rohit’s captaincy, particularly his decision to bowl first and exclude star spinner Ravichandran Ashwin from the playing XI.
India’s comprehensive 209-run loss to Australia in the final has prompted fans and experts to question Rohit’s suitability as the team’s captain. Many have called for his removal from the leadership position due to the perceived shortcomings in his decision-making during the match.
However, amidst the widespread criticism, former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has come out in support of Rohit as the supreme leader of the Indian team. Ganguly, who himself captained the national side with distinction, believes that Rohit was the best choice after Virat Kohli to lead the team.
Ganguly defended his stance by highlighting Rohit’s impressive record as captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has led the Mumbai Indians (MI) to five title victories. Ganguly also commended Rohit for guiding India to victory in the Asia Cup and leading the team to the WTC final.
Furthermore, Ganguly controversially claimed that winning an IPL trophy is more challenging than winning an ICC title. He argued that in the Cricket World Cup, teams have to play a smaller number of matches to progress to the knockout stages compared to the rigorous nature of the IPL.
“The selectors needed a captain after Virat left and Rohit was the best that time. He had won 5 IPL trophies and done well at the international level as well; he won the Asia Cup. He was the best option. India also played in the final of the Test championship, although we lost,” said Ganguly while speaking to Aaj Tak.
“I have full faith on Rohit. He and MS Dhoni have won 5 IPL titles. Winning the IPL isn’t easy because it’s a tough tournament. Winning the IPL is more difficult that winning a World Cup as there are 14 matches after which you take part in the playoffs. In the World Cup, it takes only 4-5 matches for a place in the semis. In the IPL, it takes 17 matches for you to become champions,” added Ganguly.
