IND vs NZ: Rohit requires Dhoni's foresight for smarter bowling shifts, says Manjrekar
Xtra Time Web Desk: Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has suggested that India captain Rohit Sharma should adopt MS Dhoni's knack for preemptive bowling changes to prevent opposition batsmen from taking control. Manjrekar's comments came after New Zealand dominated Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test on October 18, with Rachin Ravindra's century and Tim Southee's explosive 49 extending New Zealand's lead to 299 by lunch.
India had initial success in the session, taking 4 wickets, but Ravindra and Southee's aggressive batting towards the end added 58 runs in just 4 overs, putting New Zealand in a commanding position. Manjrekar, posting on X, highlighted Dhoni's ability to sense trouble early and make crucial bowling adjustments, urging Rohit to incorporate this quality into his captaincy.
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"Dhoni had this very unique ability to preempt & make a bowling change before the damage went out of control. Rohit needs to bring that quality into his leadership," said Manjrekar.
Dhoni had this very unique ability to preempt & make a bowling change before the damage went out of control. Rohit needs to bring that quality into his leadership. #IndvNz
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 18, 2024
India began Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test looking to recover from their lowest-ever home total, and early breakthroughs from Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah raised hopes for a comeback. Siraj dismissed Daryl Mitchell, and Bumrah sent Tom Blundell packing, giving India a foothold as they tried to wrest control. Despite these wickets, Rachin Ravindra remained solid at one end, even as Ravindra Jadeja chipped in by removing Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry.
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New Zealand captain Tim Southee then joined Rachin, providing much-needed resistance. His aggressive approach, with 3 fours and 3 sixes in a quickfire 49 from 50 balls, allowed Ravindra to accelerate as well. Together, the duo steered New Zealand into a commanding position, with Ravindra racing to his second Test century, keeping his team in full control as India struggled to regain momentum.
