Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur has shed light on the pivotal role Rohit Sharma played during his memorable innings at The Gabba in India’s iconic Test win against Australia in 2021.
Thakur formed a game-changing 123-run partnership with Washington Sundar for the seventh wicket, steering India closer to Australia’s first-innings total of 369.
Walking in at 186/6, Thakur exhibited remarkable composure and aggression in only his second Test match. He scored a gritty 67 off 115 balls, laced with nine boundaries and two sixes, against a formidable Australian bowling attack.
Reflecting on that performance, Thakur revealed that Rohit Sharma, from the dugout, used subtle sign language to guide him during critical moments in the fourth Test in Brisbane.
Thakur explained how Sharma’s gestures helped him manage his innings, particularly against tiring bowlers.
“Rohit was talking to me in sign language from the dugout, indicating when a bowler was nearing the end of their spell. For example, when Hazlewood was tiring, Rohit gestured for me to hold back and not attempt risky shots,” Thakur shared with *The Cricket Monthly*.
In the second innings, however, Thakur’s confidence got the better of him. Attempting an ambitious shot, he was dismissed for just 2 runs by Josh Hazlewood, leading to a scolding from Sharma.
“I was riding high after my first-innings performance but ended up top-edging a flick. When I returned to the dugout, Rohit scolded me for not finishing the game. I defended myself, saying it wasn’t a rash shot,” Thakur recounted. Fortunately, Rishabh Pant’s unbeaten 89 ensured India clinched a historic three-wicket victory.
The 2021 Gabba Test remains one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history, symbolizing resilience and grit.
As of now, Rohit Sharma and his team are facing Australia at the same venue in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Fans eagerly await to see if India can recreate the magic of their historic triumph at The Gabba.