India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, had a disappointing outing with the bat during the second Test against New Zealand, currently underway at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. After dismissing New Zealand for 259, India had high hopes for a strong start, especially with Rohit at the helm.
However, the day took an unexpected turn as Rohit was dismissed cheaply, leaving his team in a precarious position early in the innings. The Indian team, which had struggled with consistency in the first Test, looked to their captain for stability. Fans were expecting Rohit to guide the team to a solid foundation, but that wasn’t the case.
WATCH – Washington Sundar’s Sensational 7-Wicket Haul Bundles Out New Zealand For 259
From the very start, the New Zealand bowlers, led by veteran pacer Tim Southee, kept the pressure on, making it difficult for Rohit to settle at the crease. He faced a maiden over and struggled to find rhythm against the disciplined bowling attack.
— Drizzyat12Kennyat8 (@45kennyat7PM) October 24, 2024
Tim Southee, who has a knack for getting the better of top-order batters, once again proved his expertise. He delivered a well-pitched ball on a good length, targeting the middle and off stumps. Rohit, trying to defend from the crease, was caught off guard as the ball nipped away slightly. The ball just clipped the top of the off stump after a slight deflection off his back pad, sending the skipper back to the pavilion for a 9-ball duck.
ALSO READ: India A Team Departs For Australia Ahead of First-Class Series, Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad
Rohit looked stunned by the dismissal, his defensive shot completely squared up by the subtle movement off the seam. The stadium, which had been buzzing with anticipation, fell into an eerie silence as the Indian captain walked off, visibly disappointed. It was a rare failure for Rohit, who now faces the challenge of bouncing back in this crucial Test series.
