Ashes 2025/26: Robin Uthappa gives an important learning to the batters
Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa recently shared his perspective on the Melbourne pitch used for the fourth Ashes Test between Australia and England, stating that the surface was challenging but far from unplayable. The Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground concluded within two days, with England clinching a closely fought four-wicket win, sparking widespread debate about the nature of the pitch. Addressing the criticism, Uthappa felt that the pitch itself was not the sole reason for the quick finish. According to him, both Australian and English batters failed to show the level of patience, technique, and mental application required to succeed in such conditions.
Ashes 2025/26: What went wrong for the batters in Melbourne?
Robin Uthappa emphasized that the MCG has historically been known to assist bowlers, especially early on, and batting on that surface has always demanded discipline, solid defense, and the ability to leave the ball well. Uthappa further pointed out that batters who value time at the crease and focus on wearing down the bowlers generally perform better on such tracks. In this context, he highlighted Indian veterans Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane as ideal examples, suggesting that their sound defensive skills, calm temperament, and willingness to grind it out would have allowed them to thrive on the Melbourne surface.
"See, it's a dichotomous situation. It's not like it's an impossible wicket. There are such wickets in Melbourne which are very juicy for fast bowlers... I think it's because of the way cricket is played today. I feel like these pitches are unsporty, but if you've the right technique and the right mindset and the fight in you, you'll be able to figure out a solution for this kind of a wicket also. It's not a high-scoring game, but it's not... It won't be a 300-plus game, but even a 250 on this wicket is possible. You gotta fight it out. Play like Puji (Pujara) and Ajinkya Rahane. Definitely, you'll score runs," stated former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa.
Robin Uthappa also shared his thoughts on Joe Root’s struggles during the second Test in Brisbane, observing that the England batter looked unusually uncomfortable at the crease. According to Uthappa, Root appeared completely out of rhythm, which was surprising given his vast experience and proven quality in Test cricket. He explained that Root, who is widely regarded as one of the finest batters of his generation, seemed unsure of his movements and decision-making, something rarely seen from a player of his stature.
Uthappa described the phase as one of those unfortunate moments that Test cricket occasionally throws up, even for elite players. He stressed that difficult pitches, combined with relentless bowling pressure, can expose even the most technically sound batters. On such surfaces, small technical lapses or momentary indecision can quickly snowball into bigger problems, making it hard for players to regain confidence.
He further added that these challenging periods are part of the game and often test a player’s mental strength as much as their technique. Uthappa emphasized that Root’s struggles should not define his ability, noting that great players inevitably face rough patches during long tours. He believes such experiences ultimately strengthen batters, forcing them to adapt and evolve, and expressed confidence that Root would bounce back stronger from the setback.
"I am saying this with a grain of salt because the way we're playing Test cricket has now changed. I don't enjoy it a lot - like the Ashes Test matches that finished in two days. What are we doing to the sport for entertainment? Joe Root looked too lost in that Test match. He didn't know how to play, play attacking cricket, or play his own way in the second innings. It was quite unfortunate... I empathize with them," Uthappa added.
