December 29th 2024.
The recent Boxing Day Test between India and Australia has caused quite a stir, not just for the intense gameplay but also for an incident involving India's captain, Rohit Sharma, and his teammate Yashasvi Jaiswal. Jaiswal, known for his excellent fielding skills, had a rough day on the field, dropping three catches during Australia's batting on day four.
One of the catches was a crucial one from Usman Khawaja, and the other two were from Marnus Labuschagne. Sharma's reaction to Jaiswal's second dropped catch was quite intense, as he threw his arms up in frustration and then gave the young player a cold stare. Even Virat Kohli and Akash Deep were visibly upset, with Akash even muttering some swear words towards Jaiswal.
This behavior did not sit well with former Australian player Mike Hussey, who felt that as the captain, Sharma should have shown more composure and support towards his teammate. "I appreciate that he's emotional and wants to take wickets, but as a leader, he needs to send a message of calm and support. Dropping a catch is not intentional, and Jaiswal will already feel bad about it," said Hussey on Fox Cricket.
Alyssa Healy, the captain of the Australian women's team, also felt that the team needed to be gentle towards Jaiswal, especially since he would hold the key in India's chase at Melbourne. "He is going to be crucial for India's batting, and we need to support him, not bring him down," said Healy.
Unfortunately, Jaiswal's tough day continued as he dropped another catch, this time of Australia's captain Pat Cummins, just before tea. This time, Sharma's reaction was more subdued, but he still gave Jaiswal a cold stare. Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann, while speaking on ABC Radio, commended wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for his gentle approach towards Jaiswal after his dropped catches. "Pant did well by giving him a pat on the back and reminding him that everyone drops catches. What he doesn't need is his captain and Kohli throwing their arms about. It's tough for the kid," said Lehmann.
Former Victoria wicketkeeper Darren Berry also felt that Jaiswal needed the support of his senior teammates to regain his focus and confidence. "You have to feel for Jaiswal, dropping three catches in a crucial game. But his only answer now is to play a match-winning innings for India later today. He needs the support of his senior players, not to be berated," said Berry.
In conclusion, while Sharma's intentions may have been to show his frustration towards Jaiswal's dropped catches, it is important for him, as the captain, to remain composed and supportive towards his teammates, especially young players like Jaiswal, who need encouragement and guidance. After all, as they say, "No one means to drop a catch."
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