Australian media slams Rohit Sharma for frustration at Jaiswal
After taking aim at Virat Kohli over the Sam Konstas incident, Australian media shifted focus to Rohit Sharma during the fourth Test against Australia. The 37-year-old India captain was criticized for his outburst at opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had a rough time on Day 4 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
India was in a tense battle with Australia. Jasprit Bumrah’s three quick wickets had brought India back into the game, reducing Australia to 91 for six. However, the hosts rallied behind Marnus Labuschagne’s fifty and a gritty partnership between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland.
Jaiswal struggled early, dropping three catches. The worst moment came when he missed a catch off Labuschagne at 47 runs. Rohit, visibly frustrated, reacted angrily, throwing his hands in the air. When Jaiswal dropped another catch off Pat Cummins, Rohit screamed in frustration. This reaction drew criticism from both commentators and Australian media.
The West Australian publication, which had criticized Kohli previously, now targeted Rohit with the headline: “Captain Cry Baby.” The article further mocked the Indian captain, saying, “Turns out Kohli isn’t the only sook in the Indian side.”
Former Australia cricketer Mike Hussey expressed his disapproval of Rohit’s reaction. On Fox Cricket, Hussey said, “I don’t like that reaction from the Indian skipper. He’s emotional, but he should send a message of calm and support.” He emphasized that Jaiswal would already be feeling bad about the missed chances and didn’t need further criticism.
Alyssa Healy, an Australian star, added, “You need him to open the batting and help win the match. Berating him won’t help.” Former cricketer Darren Berry also tweeted, “Jaiswal needs support from senior players, not beratement. He’s dropped crucial chances, but his answer can only be a match-winning innings.”
This incident has sparked a debate on how senior players should handle younger teammates, especially in the heat of competition.
