Is BCCI mulling over split captaincy post World Cup performance?
Soon after India suffered a premature exit from the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019, talks surfaced that the BCCI is mulling over split captaincy. In the same light, reports have emerged which state that the board wants Virat Kohli to continue as Test and T20I skipper, but Rohit Sharma is their choice to lead the side in ODIs. Here are the details.
How did India perform in 2019 World Cup?
The CWC saw India dominate the show in the league stage as they finished at the top of the 10-team table. But a poor outing with the bat, in the semis, ended their campaign. Throughout the tournament, India seemed to be over dependent on the top order and the bowlers. Although, skipper Kohli was mature in his outlook, but he made several tactical blunders.
'This would be right time for Rohit to take over'
"This would be the right time for Rohit to take over the mantle of the captaincy in the 50-over format. There has been immense support to the present captain...and it's time to plan ahead for the next World Cup" said a board member to IANS.
Is BCCI planning to follow England's strategy?
England performed poorly in the 2015 World Cup and the focus to resurrect their status started right after the event. Since then, Eoin Morgan-led side started playing an aggressive brand of cricket. Players were allowed to express themselves without the fear of failure. This saw England becoming the 2019 World Cup winners. Notably, England also followed a split captaincy route.
How has Rohit performed as a captain?
Rohit has led the Indian team in Kohli's absence in the last couple of years. His best moments came when India sealed the T20 Nidahas Trophy and the 2018 ODI Asia Cup in UAE. He was praised for his calming head and ability to analyze situations. He looked like a natural leader and that benefited India as they gave rest to Kohli.
Will split captaincy be the right call?
England and Australia have different captains for red and white-ball cricket. Giving Rohit the permanent captaincy looks like a good move. Given his record, India have found an able leader. But why just limit him to ODIs? He can perhaps be given the responsibility of T20Is as well. This will allow Kohli to focus on Test cricket and lead the side accordingly.
What else should be the focus of BCCI?
India's middle order has always been their Achilles' heel and in hindsight, they should have not tinkered with the number four position in their run-up to CWC The team needs to find a way to tackle pressure during knockout games. Players need to be given the freedom to play their natural game. The BCCI also needs to find the answers to these questions.
