"At some stage that leniency has got to stop" - Former Australian batter makes scathing remark on Rohit Sharma's future during BGT 2024-25 4th Test

Former Australian batter Michael Hussey felt Indian skipper Rohit Sharma must be dropped should he fail in the second innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at Melbourne. The 37-year-old has endured a dismal tour of Australia, averaging 5.50 in four innings with a highest score of just 10.

Rohit's Test form has been poor since the home series against Bangladesh, with an average of 11.10 with a lone half-century in his last 14 innings. Talks of his place in the Test side have taken centerstage with several former players emphasizing the importance of the next couple of innings for the Indian skipper.

Talking about Rohit's form, Hussey, during the ongoing Melbourne Test, said on Fox Cricket [Via Hindustan Times]:

"I think they've given him that leniency already because he's been a great player for India. At some stage that leniency has got to stop and it stops after this Test match unless he makes runs in the second innings. I don't think you have to say 'where are you at?' You can see where he's at."

He added:

"The numbers don't lie. They've had a few tough wickets to bat on previous to this tour in India but you just see even his movement in the field (is not good). Even tactically he's been off the pace as well and he gets a used by date, everyone does."

Rohit has also struggled historically in Tests down under with an average of 25.29 in 18 innings.

"If I was a selector now, it depends what happens in the second innings" - Mark Waugh

Indian Cricket Team Captain Rohit Sharma Press Conference For Upcoming ICC T20 - Source: Getty

Another former Australian batter Mark Waugh echoed Michael Hussey's sentiments on Rohit Sharma, stating the importance of the second innings in the ongoing Boxing Day Test.

After batting at No.6 in the previous two Tests, Rohit returned to his customary opening position in the Melbourne outing. However, his poor form continued with a five-ball three in the first innings.

"If I was a selector now, it depends what happens in the second innings, but if he doesn't make runs in the second innings and we go to Sydney in a crucial Test match, I'd be saying 'Rohit thank you for your service, you've been a great player, but we're going to bring in Jasprit Bumrah as captain for the SCG and that's the end of your career," said Waugh.

He added:

"It'd be a very tough way for Rohit Sharma to go ... his last 14 innings' he's averages 11, so the signs are there that he's past his best. It happens to all players. All great players come to an end at some stage."

As things stand, Australia are struggling at 116/6 in their second innings, at the time of writing, with an overall lead of 221.