Shoaib Akhtar has always spoken his heart out, no matter how unpopular his opinion might be. He has been very blunt with his statements since retiring from professional cricket. The former Pakistan paver recently spoke about Rohit Sharma and how he feels that India must try split captaincy if Rohit has a good time in the upcoming series against Australia. India are all set to tour Australia for the T20s, ODIs and Tests lined up in the next two months, are going to rigorous training in a bid to keep their winning streak in Australia. Virat Kohli announced that he would be returning to after the first Test, to attend his pregnant wife Anushka. This also provides a chance for Rohit Sharma to showcase his talent as a skipper. With Kohli set to miss the next Tests, he has a good chance to lead the side even though Ajinkya Rahane is already named deputy to Kohli in Test matches.

 

Akhtar feels that Rohit Sharma leading the Indian Test team against Australia in Virat Kohli’s absence is a no brainer and the-much awaited series will be his “best chance” to stake a claim for captaincy in one of the limited-overs formats. “Rohit is one of the greatest batsmen India has produced. Now he also understands the real value of his talent. Australia will be his best chance to prove himself as captain. He should grab it with both hands. He has the talent and ability to lead the team. It will be a tough test for India, and I would look for these kinds of situations as a player. The whole world would be looking at Rohit as captain and batsman. If he does well for himself and the team, then there should be a debate about split captaincy,” said Akhtar. While speaking to PTI, Akhtar offered his view on the debate.”My take on it is pretty simple. From what I know Virat is very keen to take the team forward. It all depends on how fatigued he is feeling. He has been playing non-stop since 2010, has got 70 centuries and a mountain of runs under his belt,” he said.”If he is feeling fatigued, then he should think about giving the leadership role to Rohit in one of the formats (preferably T20s).”I could see the boredom on his face during the IPL, may be it was because of the bio-bubble situation, he seemed a bit stressed out. It all depends on how he feels. Rohit has been ready for captaincy for a while.”

 

“In my opinion, India have the ability to win again. But if their middle order doesn’t perform, I see them struggling. People will be watching this series with great interest including myself.”The day-night Test will be their toughest test. If India play well in those conditions, then you never know. The first two innings of the first Test will tell us where the series is headed.” He added. India are all set to play three T20Is, three ODIs and four Test matches.

By Arvind Krishnan

Cricket writer, statistician and analyst. An unorthodox media student, marketing runs in his blood. Sports Marketer and analyst.