Rohit Sharma, India’s all-format captain since March 2022, has been known for taking responsibility, especially in white-ball cricket. However, his leadership in Test matches has been less inspiring, both in strategy and personal performance, particularly during the ongoing season. India has lost four of their last five Tests under Rohit, including three at home to New Zealand. His own batting form has been underwhelming, with only one half-century in his last 13 innings. This poor run, combined with India’s struggles in Test cricket, has raised questions about his future as a player and captain, particularly after Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden test retirement.
Rohit has acknowledged his shortcomings, admitting that he has not been performing well with the bat. Despite this, he remains optimistic, stating that he feels good about his preparation and is confident of a turnaround. He emphasized the importance of spending more time at the crease and focusing on his technique. While retirement is a personal decision, selectors may still hold him accountable if his performances don’t improve, especially with crucial Test matches and the World Test Championship (WTC) qualification at stake.
India’s chances of reaching the WTC final hang by a thread, and the next two Tests in Australia will play a critical role in shaping the team’s future. The results could determine whether Rohit continues as captain for the upcoming five-Test series in England or if the selectors decide to bring in new leadership to begin a fresh cycle. The team management might have to evaluate whether a change in captaincy is necessary to rejuvenate the side.
Virat Kohli, Rohit’s predecessor, faces similar scrutiny. While Kohli’s recent century in Perth showcased his potential, it stands out as an anomaly amidst a series of dismissals caused by his weakness against deliveries outside off-stump. This recurring problem mirrors his struggles during the 2014 England tour, where he managed only 134 runs in ten innings. Kohli’s current form has reignited concerns about his ability to handle pressure and avoid unnecessary risks.
Although Kohli is younger and fitter than Rohit, he too must deliver consistent performances to remain indispensable to the team. Both players are under immense pressure to justify their roles in the squad. The selectors and team management will be closely monitoring their performances in the next two Tests to decide the way forward. India faces the challenge of potentially losing two of their most experienced players simultaneously, which could have significant implications for the team’s stability and future direction.
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