IND vs AUS: Why Rohit Sharma Opening the Innings in Adelaide Test Might Be a Grave Mistake?

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Rohit Sharma, who is one of India’s most celebrated batters has often been regarded as a cornerstone of the team’s top order in Test cricket. In fact, he is India's leading run-scorer in the WTC with 2685 runs at an average of 44.1, including 9 centuries and 8 fifties.

However, his role as an opener in the upcoming Adelaide Test (December 6) under the unique challenges of a day-night pink ball game might be more of a gamble than a calculated move in the first place. Let's now take a closer look at why this decision could backfire not just for him but for the entire batting line-up.

Rohit Sharma missed the Perth Test to be with his family for the birth of his second child, which is entirely understandable. However, the long break from competitive cricket could prove detrimental when facing the fiery Australian pace attack, especially against the pink ball under lights.

There was a lack of rhythm when he batted in the two-day warm-up game against the Prime Minister's XI. Coming to bat one down, he could only manage just 3 runs off 11 deliveries before he was dismissed cheaply as he nicked Charlie Anderson to the keeper.

His batting approach against the swinging pink ball showcased his vulnerability. The pink ball is notorious for its behavior in twilight and evening sessions as we have seen that it swings prodigiously, especially in Australian conditions.

As a result, the openers need to be exceptionally tight with their technique and judgment during these phases. KL Rahul's stellar performance as an opener in the Perth Test cannot be overlooked as well. His ability to handle the new ball effectively under challenging conditions makes him a top candidate to continue as an opener. Pairing him with Yashasvi Jaiswal could allow India to weather the initial storm of the pink ball.

Moreover, Rohit Sharma's recent outing suggests he might not be fully prepared for the new ball’s challenges, especially against someone like Pat Cummins or even Mitchell Starc. Both pacers are very good at exploiting any weaknesses in technique.

As a result, early dismissal of Rohit Sharma could dent India's momentum right at the start. If the Indian skipper takes his place as an opener or even at No.3, it could unsettle the batting order in the first place. This move risks breaking the rhythm of the existing batting line-up, which found some balance in the Perth Test.

Historically, the Nagpur-born cricketer has been a far more effective batter in the middle order. At No.6, he has scored 1,037 runs in 16 Tests, with an impressive average backed by three centuries and six fifties. Perhaps, this position would let him counter a slightly older ball and help him go about his work.