Day 3 of the 2nd Test between India and England ended in high drama after Rohit Sharma made a bold captaincy decision that left fans and experts stunned: sending in a nightwatchman with nearly 30 minutes still to play under fading light on a spicy Lord’s pitch! The surprise move instantly became the talk of the cricket world, as debates raged over whether Rohit’s gamble was a stroke of tactical genius or a decision fraught with risk.
The moment unfolded after India lost opener Shubman Gill late in the evening session, leaving them at 18/1 while chasing a challenging target on a deteriorating surface. Instead of sending in an experienced batter like Cheteshwar Pujara to weather the storm, Rohit shocked everyone by promoting tailender Mohammed Shami as a nightwatchman — a decision that raised eyebrows given the time left in the day and the menacing mood of England’s fast bowlers.
What followed was edge-of-the-seat cricket: Shami faced a barrage of hostile deliveries from Mark Wood and James Anderson, who smelled blood and went all-out with short balls and late swing. The nightwatchman was beaten multiple times, took blows on the body, and nearly edged to slips twice — but somehow survived the tense period as India finished at 26/1 at stumps.
Fans were left divided by Rohit’s call. Many praised the captain for protecting key batters like Pujara and Kohli from the treacherous conditions, arguing it could pay dividends if India’s top order starts Day 4 with a fresh pitch and clear skies. Others slammed the move as an unnecessary gamble, pointing out that the nightwatchman’s edgy stay only added chaos and increased the risk of losing another wicket late in the day.
Experts weighed in immediately: Sunil Gavaskar called the decision “highly unconventional but possibly inspired,” while Michael Vaughan tweeted, “Rohit’s nightwatchman plan nearly backfired spectacularly — India lucky to survive.” Social media buzzed with memes and debates, with hashtags like #RohitGamble and #Nightwatchman trending worldwide.
With the match finely balanced and India needing to bat long on Day 4, all eyes are now on whether Rohit’s risky move will prove to be a masterstroke or a costly mistake.
Will the nightwatchman’s gritty stand give India the platform they need — or has Rohit taken one risk too many in this epic Lord’s battle?