After 'clown Kohli,' Australian media calls Rohit Sharma 'captain cry baby'

Sharma was visibly frustrated over Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped catches during the fourth Test against Australia

The Australian media has turned its attention to Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, criticising his visible frustration over Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped catches during the fourth Test of the series.

This comes after earlier barbs at Virat Kohli, whom a Perth-based tabloid, The West Australian, labeled a "clown" in a separate controversy involving Sam Konstas.

The same tabloid intensified its critique of the Indian team, publishing a headline that read "Captain Cry Baby" accompanied by an edited image of Rohit appearing to cry. The slug further mocked the Indian captain, stating, "Turns out Kohli isn't the only sook in Indian side."

Rohit’s frustration stemmed from three missed chances by Jaiswal, an otherwise dependable fielder, on day four of the Boxing Day Test.

The missed opportunities included a chance at leg gully off Usman Khawaja, who was on two, and a straightforward slip catch off Marnus Labuschagne during the second session.

The latter drop came off Akash Deep’s bowling shortly after Jasprit Bumrah had sparked a collapse with three quick wickets, adding to India’s challenges in the field.

The Indian skipper's reaction – throwing his arms up and glaring at Jaiswal – drew criticism from former Australian cricketers and broadcasters.

Speaking on Fox Cricket, ex-Australian batter Mike Hussey disapproved of Rohit’s visible frustration.

"I've got to be honest, I don't like that reaction from the Indian skipper," Hussey said. "As a captain, it's your job to send a message of calm and support, especially to young players. No one drops a catch intentionally, and reactions like that can make them feel even worse."

Rohit’s reaction, along with visible irritation from Virat Kohli and Akash Deep, who reportedly used expletives, has also been flagged as a potential detriment to team morale.

Broadcasters noted that such visible displeasure could undermine confidence in young players like Jaiswal, who is still establishing himself at the international level.

The criticism underscores the high-pressure environment of the series, where fielding errors can shift the momentum of a match.