In a highly anticipated clash, India suffered a resounding defeat of 210 runs against Australia in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship Final. The outcome of the match has triggered a wide range of reactions from fans, who have taken to social media to express their disappointment and frustration. One major point of contention revolves around Rohit Sharma‘s decision to bowl first, with many fans blaming it for India’s downfall in the game.
The anger directed towards Sharma, as well as the overall dissatisfaction with India’s bowling and batting performances, has prompted some fans to reminisce about the team’s last ICC title victory. Since winning the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy under the leadership of MS Dhoni, India has not been able to clinch another major ICC trophy. Dhoni’s captaincy saw India lift three prestigious tournaments—the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy.
Fan takes a dig at Rohit Sharma
In the midst of the discussions, one fan went as far as subtly undermining Rohit Sharma’s contributions by emphasising Dhoni’s role in single handedly winning the T20 World Cup Final. The fan claimed that Dhoni achieved this feat without any coach, mentor, or support from senior players.
“No coach , no mentor, young boys, most of the senior players denied to take part . never captained any single match before. This guy defeated prime Australia in semifinals and won a T20 World Cup in 48 days after becoming captain,” the account posted.
Harbhajan’s reply
However, Harbhajan Singh swiftly intervened on social media, reminding everyone that cricket is a team sport and the efforts of all 11 players should be acknowledged and respected.
“Yes when these matches were played this young boy was playing alone from India.. not the other 10 .. so alone he won the World Cup trophies. Irony when Australia or any other nation win the World Cup headlines says Australia or etc country won. But when an Indian wins it’s said captain won. It’s a team sports. Win together lose together,” Harbhajan Singh replied to the fan’s tweet.
Harbhajan’s response shed light on the importance of recognizing the collective contributions of the entire team, rather than singling out one individual. He highlighted the irony in how headlines typically credit the entire country when Australia or any other nation wins a World Cup, but when an Indian captain leads the team to victory, it is often solely attributed to the captain’s success. Harbhajan emphasised that cricket is a team sport, where wins and losses are shared by the entire squad.
Following the match, Harbhajan engaged in a meaningful conversation with Rahul Dravid, questioning whether playing on dust bowls in India had contributed to the team’s downfall. Dravid acknowledged the concern, stating that playing conditions needed to be examined to ensure the formation of a strong and balanced team.
