‘It used to happen with David Gower all the time’ - Sunil Gavaskar reflects on Rohit Sharma’s batting approach in NZ series

With India being whitewashed by New Zealand in the recently concluded three-match Test series, many have come forward and questioned India skipper Rohit Sharma’s approach with the bat. The Indian team had their historic home Test record spoilt as they faced a 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand.  

In his last five Test matches, Rohit Sharma has averaged under 14 runs. Furthermore, apart from his low scores, many have criticised him for throwing away his wicket in the name of intent. 

However, former India batter Sunil Gavaskar recently came forward and dismissed the allegations against Rohit Sharma that he has been throwing away his wickets. He took the example of former England batter David Gower and compared his approach to that of Rohit. 

Also Read: ‘Wasn't at my best with both bat and as a captain’ - Rohit Sharma’s honest admission after humiliating series defeat

"I think, with somebody who has got time to play the shots like he has and the elegance he has, people generally tend to misinterpret that (as casual). It used to happen with David Gower all the time. Lovely, easy-on-the-eye batsman. So, every time he got out, they would say, ‘Oh, he doesn’t bother’," Gavaskar told the Indian Express. 

"They all care about their wicket. They all want to score as many runs as possible. It’s just that their batting looks so simple and their dismissals also therefore look that way. But it’s just a natural way for them. Can’t point fingers,” he added. 

Even the best of players go through bad patches: Gavaskar

Furthermore, Gavaskar also protected the form of Rohit Sharma. He even came to Virat Kohli’s defence after both batters put in subpar performances throughout the three-Test series. 

"Even the best of players go through bad patches. These weren’t easy pitches to bat on in all three matches. Except, perhaps, the second innings in Bengaluru. Sometimes you need a bit of luck… like you make the first mistake and the ball goes only near the stump. Somebody drops a catch, a close LBW goes in your favour," said Gavaskar.