Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has expressed his support for India’s skipper Rohit Sharma, urging critics to let the experienced batter make his own decisions regarding his future in Test cricket. Rohit has faced mounting criticism for his lackluster performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he has yet to deliver a notable contribution with the bat.
Ahead of the fifth and final Test in Sydney, Clarke highlighted Rohit’s standing in the cricketing world and the advantages that come with being a captain.
“Some players thrive under captaincy, while for others, it can be challenging. I believe Rohit will play in Sydney; I don’t think he’ll be dropped. He’s earned that right, and as captain, there’s a bit more leeway granted,” Clarke said in an interview with ESPN.
Rohit’s performance as captain has not mirrored his earlier successes. While he averages 30.58 in the leadership role, his batting average before taking on the captaincy was a stellar 46.87. Despite this decline, Clarke maintains that the 36-year-old deserves the respect and autonomy to decide when to step away from the game.
