Just Back Your Instincts: Rohit’s Message To Indian Newcomer

Despite his inexperience at the international level, having only debuted in the first Test against Australia in Nagpur earlier this month, KS Bharat revealed how Rohit Sharma has shown his trust in him over DRS calls.

He stated that the India captain asked him to back his instincts and express his thoughts clearly, without worrying about the result.

“Rohit bhai and myself had a word,” said Bharat, who is currently India’s first-choice Test keeper in Rishabh Pant’s absence. “He said, ‘you are the best judge, as you stay close to the batsman. So whatever you feel, just give your opinion. You, me and the bowler – the three of us will discuss, and we will take a call’.

He said, ‘don’t worry about whether it is going to go our way or their way. Just back your instinct – whatever you feel, just put it across’. So the message is clear.”

Bharat bagged four catches and a stumping across India’s comprehensive wins in the first two Tests. He was promoted to No.6 in India’s 115-run chase in Delhi, and the right-hander responded with a counter-attacking 23* off 22 that featured three fours and a six.

With the first two Tests having lasted less than three days, further highlighting the batting challenges on spin-friendly surfaces, Bharat marked shot selection and defence as the key aspects for fellow batters.

“Rohit bhai told me that I will go in at No. 6 (in Delhi 2nd innings),” said Bharat. “I was ready the minute they (Australia) got all out. As a player, when you sit out, you just can’t relax saying, ‘it’s not going to be my day’. You always have to be in the game. Lucky enough that I got an opportunity to go in and bat.

“The intent is never a problem, shot selection is critical on these tracks. Runs will come here if shot selection is right. Trusting defence is key.”

The third Test between India and Australia will be played at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore from Wednesday, 1 March.