Daryll Cullinan takes a dig at Rohit Sharma's fitness and performance

Former South African cricketer Daryll Cullinan has criticized Indian captain Rohit Sharma, calling him “overweight” and labeling him a “flat-track bully.” Cullinan, 57, compared Rohit's fitness to that of Virat Kohli, suggesting that Rohit lacks the physical condition needed for the rigorous demands of long Test series.

Rohit has struggled with form in 2024, accumulating just 597 runs in 23 innings at an average of 27.14. In his last six Tests, he has only managed 142 runs at an average of 11.83, with only one score over 25. His performance in the second Test against Australia in Adelaide, where he batted at No. 6 and scored only nine runs across two innings, further added to his woes.

Speaking to Insidesport, Cullinan pointed out the stark contrast in the physical condition of Rohit and Kohli. "Rohit is overweight and no longer has the fitness required for the demands of a four or five-match Test series," he said. He also expressed doubts about Rohit’s ability to perform consistently outside India, labeling him a “flat-track bully” and criticizing his struggles with the short ball, particularly in South Africa.

Cullinan also questioned Rohit’s position in the middle-order, stating, “He is an opener and must lead from the front.”

Under Rohit’s captaincy, India has lost their last four Tests. The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy is tied 1-1, with the third Test scheduled for December 14 at the Gabba.