Sun Mar 09 17:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Gavaskar Urges Rohit Sharma to Extend Innings, Critiques Coach’s “Impact” Focus

**Mumbai, India** – Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has called on Indian captain Rohit Sharma to prioritize longer innings, challenging the team’s current emphasis on “impact” over sustained performance. Following India’s Champions Trophy semi-final victory over Australia, coach Gautam Gambhir defended Rohit’s aggressive, shorter innings approach, arguing that his contributions are measured by impact rather than solely by run totals.

However, Gavaskar disagrees, asserting that Rohit’s immense talent is underutilized. “If he stays at the crease for 25-30 overs, he will take the game away from the opponents,” Gavaskar told India Today. He pointed out that Rohit’s current approach, while yielding some success, doesn’t fully leverage his skillset. “He bats for even 25 overs, India will be around 180-200. Imagine if they have lost only a couple of wickets by then; they could reach 350 or more,” Gavaskar projected.

The legendary batsman criticized Rohit’s apparent contentment with scores of 25-30 runs, suggesting a far greater contribution is achievable. Gavaskar urged Rohit to incorporate more strategic patience into his aggressive style, enabling him to bat for significantly longer periods. He concluded that this prolonged presence at the crease would translate to a far more significant and match-winning impact for the team.

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