Former cricketer Mohammed Kaif raised concerns about the lack of preparation by Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma leading up to the Australia tour. The duo underperformed in the first ODI in Perth on Sunday, October 19. Both players were making their international comeback after a long break and were anticipated to deliver strong performances.
However, Rohit was dismissed for eight runs and Kohli for a duck, resulting in India’s defeat by seven wickets. Despite undergoing preparation in their respective camps, Kaif questioned their readiness for the Australian conditions.
Kaif emphasized that both players should have arrived in Australia earlier to acclimate to the conditions. He noted that their performance seemed off during the match.
“Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma had the opportunity. However, they may have felt compelled to travel with the team due to external pressures. Perhaps there was a notion that ‘Virat should accompany the team,’ considering recent changes. This could have created additional stress. It might have been a different scenario if he hadn’t traveled with the team. So, he found himself in this situation,” Kaif shared on his YouTube channel.
“Both players had the chance to arrive eight to ten days earlier. Regardless of their stature as batters, rhythm plays a crucial role in this sport. A formidable team like Australia won’t go easy on you if you’re not in sync. It would have been more beneficial if they had arrived sooner,” he added.
Rohit’s Confidence Wavered in the Match
Kaif highlighted Rohit’s dismissal, stating that under different circumstances, Rohit would have dispatched the delivery for a six if he was in form and rhythm.
“Rohit is known for his ability to pull short balls. The delivery he got out to was one he typically dispatches for a six. However, due to inadequate match practice and facing a well-prepared Hazlewood, he needed to be more ready. In top form, he would have easily cleared the boundary. But in this instance, he seemed indecisive, lacking confidence due to insufficient preparation,” Kaif explained.
Both players will need to regroup swiftly for the upcoming second ODI scheduled for Thursday, October 23.