Rohit Sharma’s captaincy came under severe criticism after India succumbed to a 28-run defeat in the opening Test against England in Hyderabad on Sunday (January 28).

Despite conceding a huge first-innings lead of 190 runs, the visitors bounced back to post 420 in their second essay, courtesy of Ollie Pope’s incredible century (196).

Chasing 231 to win, the hosts capitulated to be bowled out for 202 in 69.2 overs and went 1-0 down in the five-match series.

As India lost the first Test match at home after taking a lead of over 100 runs, former England pacer Steve Harmison came down heavily on Rohit's captaincy, saying it was not up to the mark in the second innings.

"Rohit Sharma's captaincy got caught wanting in that second innings," Harmison told ESPNCricinfo.

On the other hand, Harmison lauded England skipper Ben Stokes for believing in his team after being outplayed for the first two days.

"It's an unbelievable win. I think there's only one person who thought England could win and that was Ben Stokes. And he got 10 other people to believe as well. Not many would have given England a chance when they were 190 behind. But this is the beauty of this team. They don't look at the scoreboard. They just think let's just get to the third innings and whatever it takes to win it on the fourth," he added.

Harmison showered rich praise on Pope, who took on the Indian spinners en route to his fifth Test century under immense pressure.

"For a man whose highest score was 34 in 9 innings in India to go and get 196 was unbelievable. I'm so happy for Olli Pope. So proud and pleased for him. It gives England a great chance. I still think India are the favourites but this defeat will give India a lot to think about."

The second Test match is due to get underway on February 2 in Visakhapatnam.