Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s woes with the bat continued as he failed to contribute much in the first ODI against England at Nagpur. The experienced opener could score just 2 runs off 7 deliveries before falling to Saqib Mahmood, continuing his streak of low scores across formats. While India finished with a four-wicket win, it does raise more questions than answers on Rohit’s form, especially with Champions Trophy and a crucial Test series against England still weeks away.

Rohit’s lean phase has stirred a lot of discussion among the experts, many of whom try to find some reason behind it. Former India all-rounder and batting coach Sanjay Bangar put forth a distinct perspective on this matter by stating that instead of intense practice sessions, the Indian captain should retreat and think of his previous days.

“A phase has come in his career where he hasn’t scored runs. Sometimes practicing too much isn’t beneficial. He can probably spend a little time alone and watch the phase where he enjoyed a lot of success. Watch some videos and figure out what his habits and routines were,” said Sanjay Bangar while on Star Sports’ Match Point.

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Bangar said that Rohit should not fall into a desperation trap, as that will again dent his confidence. He feels that the Indian skipper needs to keep himself calm and rely on his natural game.

“Sometimes all those things prove hugely beneficial if you have to regain your rhythm. You have to remind yourself what works for you. He shouldn’t be too desperate in his thinking,” Sanjay Bangar added.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta too joined the discussion, stating that Rohit’s problems are more of a lack of confidence rather than a technical issue with his batting.

“I think it’s a confidence thing. He was batting alright. He was getting behind the line. He wasn’t getting late. He wasn’t missing the lines as such and Jofra Archer was bowling really well, and so was (Saqib) Mahmood. So I don’t think there is any issue as far as technique is concerned. It’s just that confidence,” Deep Dasgupta noted.

Deep Dasgupta further explained that Rohit might be hesitating while playing his signature strokes, leading to indecisiveness at the crease.

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“We have all been through that. When runs aren’t coming, either you are early on the ball or you are late. You are second-guessing yourself—should I play that shot, should I not? The moment he starts getting out pulling or flicking, it’s got to be confidence. I don’t think it’s technical. He is still the same batter, it’s just that he hasn’t got too many runs,” he added.

All eyes will be on Rohit Sharma as he is a key figure in India’s batting lineup and would look to rediscover his form in the coming matches to lead from the front once again.