December 26, 2024: Abhishek Nayar’s comments offer a mix of optimism and insight into India’s current situation as they seek to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, particularly regarding the struggles of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. While both have been enduring lean patches with the bat in recent times, Nayar remains confident that they can rediscover their best form, emphasizing the psychological aspect of batting and the importance of confidence.
Nayar believes that once Rohit and Kohli regain their confidence and composure, particularly during the early stages of their innings, their game will naturally improve. As he pointed out, facing 25-30 deliveries is often enough for these players to get back into their rhythm. Both have been known for their ability to build innings, and Nayar’s view underlines the importance of patience and getting off to a solid start.
Nayar echoed the sentiments expressed by Rohit Sharma ahead of the fourth Test, where the Indian captain had backed Kohli’s ability to rediscover his form. As Nayar put it, discussions with experienced players revolve around the mindset and the right game plan. The focus is often on ensuring that they remain in the “right zone” mentally, which is crucial for players of their caliber.
A significant decision for India was the omission of Shubman Gill for the Boxing Day Test, with Rohit Sharma returning to the top of the order. Nayar explained that this move was part of a broader strategy to bolster India’s bowling attack. Washington Sundar’s inclusion was aimed at providing variety to the bowling attack, particularly with the older ball, to complement Ravindra Jadeja. The decision was based on the need for balance in conditions that favored the batsmen, with the addition of Washi expected to offer crucial breakthroughs lower down the order.
Australia capitalized on their decision to bat first, with solid contributions from the openers and debutant Sam Konstas, who scored a standout half-century. Nayar acknowledged the attacking intent displayed by Konstas, particularly against Jasprit Bumrah, but also praised India’s bowlers for showing resilience in difficult conditions. While the early part of the day was challenging, with conditions favorable to batting, India came back strongly post-lunch. Nayar credited the bowlers for sticking to their plans, bowling tight maidens, and eventually getting the rewards with six Australian wickets falling by stumps.
Nayar’s comments about the psychological aspect of batting are particularly important in a series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The mental strength of players like Rohit and Kohli is often the difference between scoring big runs or succumbing to pressure. Nayar believes that once these players gain that initial confidence, their vast experience and skill set will allow them to thrive once again.
Despite being under pressure early on from Konstas and Australia’s openers, India’s bowlers fought back admirably, particularly after lunch. Nayar pointed out that India’s bowlers showed character, sticking to their plans and managing to dismiss six Australian batters by the end of the day. Given the favorable batting conditions, this was an encouraging response, suggesting that India’s bowlers are well-equipped to handle the pressure and can thrive when they remain disciplined.
India’s pursuit of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is far from easy, with challenges both in terms of batting form and adapting to the Australian conditions. However, Nayar’s optimism regarding Rohit and Kohli’s return to form, coupled with his praise for India’s bowlers, suggests that India is still very much in the fight. The key for the team will be to continue executing their game plans and staying patient, particularly when it comes to handling the form of their senior batters.
