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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has weighed in on Rohit Sharma’s recent struggles, suggesting that Team India must rethink their batting order strategy. Rohit, who missed the first Test against Australia due to the birth of his second child, failed to make a significant impact in Adelaide. While India retained the opening pair of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ponting believes Rohit should reclaim his usual slot at the top of the order.

"I felt that if (Rohit) Sharma was coming back into the side, he should have gone straight back up to the top and opened the batting," Ponting said during the ICC Review. "That's how I felt about it. And I know that KL and Jaiswal had a 200-run partnership in Perth, and they played well, but he's (Rohit) your captain. He's one of your most experienced players."

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Over the past 12 innings, including series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, Rohit has managed just 142 runs at an average of 11.83, which has raised questions about his form. Ponting, however, believes Rohit is well aware of his current struggles and doesn't need external reminders.

"It's like, you just know within yourself. You don't need anybody to tell you if you're making runs or not, or if you're batting well or not. You know deep down inside as well," Ponting said.

Ponting acknowledged the challenging batting conditions in Adelaide but emphasized the need for Rohit to resume his opening role. "He’s opened the batting for such a long period of time. I would get him straight back up there again and try to find a slot somewhere down the order for KL (Rahul)."

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Interestingly, during India’s practice session in Brisbane, Rohit was seen facing both the old and new ball, hinting at a potential return to his opener duties. Ponting further stressed the importance of making Rohit comfortable to regain form.

"Whether worried is the right word...if it's just concern or just a little bit anxious about making runs next time you bat. But if I was India and him, I'd be trying to find a way to make it as comfortable as possible."

Ponting’s comments come amid growing scrutiny over India’s batting order and Rohit’s leadership. As the Test series progresses, all eyes will be on whether India reinstates Rohit as an opener or continues with Rahul and Jaiswal at the top.