Rohit Sharma likely to open as India eyes Boxing Day glory at MCG

Reports suggest Indian skipper Rohit Sharma is set to return to the opening slot for the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), starting on Thursday. This critical Boxing Day Test comes with the series tied at 1-1, as both teams aim for a decisive lead in their pursuit of the ICC World Test Championship final.

KL Rahul, who has excelled as an opener throughout the series, may shift to the number three position. Rahul has been India’s leading run-scorer in the series, amassing 235 runs in three matches at an impressive average of 47.00. His patient technique and ability to see off the new ball have been instrumental in stabilizing India’s innings. Rahul’s two half-centuries, including a best of 84, have earned him praise as a dependable force in the batting lineup.

Rohit Sharma’s recent outings in the middle order have been less than ideal. After returning to the side for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, Rohit batted at number six, a position he initially opted for to maintain the successful opening combination of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. However, he managed just 19 runs in three innings, with a highest score of 10.

Despite his struggles, Rohit has historically been effective at number six, where he averages 48.00 in 18 Tests, scoring 1,056 runs with three centuries and six fifties. However, his overall form this season has been concerning, with only 152 runs in seven matches at an average of 11.69. For 2024, his overall tally stands at 607 runs in 13 Tests at a below-par average of 26.39, with two centuries and two fifties.

Since adopting the opening role in 2019, Rohit Sharma has been one of India’s most consistent Test performers. In 42 matches as an opener, he has scored 2,685 runs at an average of 44.01, including nine centuries and eight fifties. His best score of 212 highlights his ability to dominate at the top.

Also see: India tour of Australia Series Schedule

Rohit’s contributions in the ICC World Test Championship further underline his importance. He is India’s highest scorer in the tournament’s history, with 2,704 runs at an average of 42.25 across 39 matches, including nine centuries and eight fifties.