India's Boxing Day Test hopes were dealt a crushing blow as Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped a simple catch that could have broken Australia's resistance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
In the 40th minute, with Australia struggling at 4-11, Marnus Labuschagne, 46, threaded a ball from Akash Deb towards the gully, as Yashavi Jaiswal failed to catch the routine ball at a comfortable height.
The frustration was palpable as the Indian cricket team was desperate to capitalize on Australia's collapse in the ongoing fourth Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Melbourne. But it wasn't just the dropped shot that sparked reactions from fans and cricket experts.
Rohit Sharma's fury at Yashavi Jaiswal raises questions about leadership in Boxing Day Test
In fact, Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who was visibly angry, expressed his anger towards Yashavi Jaiswal instead of offering support to the young cricketer. Raising his arm in frustration and staring at the opener, Rohit Sharma's reaction left fans and pundits stunned.
Additionally, Akash Deb was also seen showing his anger after Rohit Sharma. Notably, this was Jaiswal's second blunder of the fourth day, as he had also dropped Usman Khawaja earlier. Meanwhile, Rohit's harsh response sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the Indian captain's leadership style and whether he should have been more supportive of the promising young talent.
Reacting to the incident, Australians Michael Hussey and Alyssa Healy criticized Rohit Sharma's reaction after Yashavi Jaiswal dropped the catch in the Boxing Day Test against Australia.
I don't like this reaction from the Indian captain: Michael Hussey
The former Australian cricketer admitted that Rohit's emotions were running high, as he wanted the wicket, but stressed that as a captain, Rohit must set an example by remaining calm and supportive.
Hussey pointed out that no one intended to drop the catch, and Jaiswal would actually feel bad about the mistake, especially with someone like Marnus Labuschagne at the other end. He believes that a young player like Jaiswal does not need such a harsh reaction.
Fox Cricket quoted Michael Hussey as saying: “I have to be honest; I don't like this reaction from the Indian captain. I appreciate that he is emotional, and desperately wants a wicket, but you are the one who should send the message of calm and support. No one means to drop the catch. He'll feel bad enough for putting someone in trouble, especially someone like Marnus Labuschagne; It happens quickly. It's in, it's out. You don't need to see that as a young player.”
Alyssa Healey criticizes Rohit Sharma's reaction to Yashavi Jaiswal's downfall
On the other hand, Australia women's captain Alyssa Healy also reacted to the incident, stressing the importance of having the right mindset when working together as teammates. She pointed out that it is very important for the team to rely on each other, especially in test matches.
“Especially when you need him to come out and open the batting alongside you, to do some runs and try to win a Test match for your country,” said Alyssa Healy.
Notably, Jaiswal's decline proved costly for Team India as Marnus Labuschagne went on to score 70 runs to help Australia gain a lead of over 300 runs in the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
