“As Expected”: Ex-India Keeper On Rohit Sharma’s Early Struggles In AUS vs IND 2025 2nd ODI

Former India cricketer Parthiv Patel observed that Rohit Sharma was likely to face difficulties early on in the seamer-friendly conditions of the second ODI against Australia. He, however, commended Rohit for adapting to the conditions at the start of his innings.

Rohit went on to score 73 runs from 97 balls, helping India post a target of 265 for Australia in the second ODI at Adelaide on Thursday, October 23. The hosts chased it down with two wickets and 22 balls remaining, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Speaking on Star Sports, Parthiv was asked about Rohit’s ability to advance his innings despite the initial struggle.

“It was on expected lines, the way the pitch was playing. Considering the moisture on the pitch, the ball was going to move for sure. However, if we look at it from Rohit Sharma’s perspective, the one good thing he did was that he respected the conditions,” he responded.

The ex-India wicketkeeper-batter praised Rohit for his patience and approach in spending time at the crease.

“We have been seeing Rohit batting at a strike rate of 132 to 134 in the first powerplay, but here he knew that the ball was moving a little, so he had to give a little respect, and that it would get easier as he kept playing, and we saw that as well. That’s a sign of a great player, how you spend a little time,” Parthiv observed.

“Rohit’s Patience Brings Back The Classic Star”- Parthiv Patel

Parthiv Patel added that the classic Rohit Sharma emerged as his innings unfolded.

“No matter how scratchy you look, you need to stay at the wicket. You will get a chance to play big shots only if you stay at the wicket, and that’s what happened with Rohit. He struggled, but as soon as he got short balls, he made the most of them. With the two hook shots we saw, it seems like the old Rohit Sharma has returned,” he elaborated.

Rohit Sharma managed just 14 runs from his first 40 balls but then accelerated, scoring 59 runs off the next 57 deliveries to emerge as India’s highest scorer.