Cricket
There’s no doubt that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are cricket legends. At the peak of their form, they achieved numerous incredible records in both ODI and T20 formats. Starting their cricketing journey as teenagers, they have carved out a unique space for themselves in world cricket. Their contribution to elevating Indian cricket to remarkable heights cannot be overlooked.
For the past decade and a half, these two have stood out as exceptional players in Indian cricket history. Praising them and describing the grace of their game feels inadequate no matter how much is said. They have played pivotal roles in many iconic victories throughout their illustrious careers.
However, in recent times, Rohit and Virat have found themselves at the receiving end of criticism. Discussions about their form and the team’s performance have raised questions about their future.
In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, the Indian batting lineup struggled. Rohit Sharma has been singled out as the primary culprit, with Virat Kohli not far behind. As both approach the twilight of their careers, this kind of send-off seems surprising and even unfortunate.
India’s recent home series loss to New Zealand was a major embarrassment for Rohit Sharma. It marked the first time in 30 years that New Zealand not only won a Test match in India but also completed a clean sweep. This defeat has jeopardized India’s chances in the World Test Championship.
The first Test against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was led by Jasprit Bumrah, and India registered a massive win, leaving Australian legends in shock. Many believed India would dominate the series. However, when Rohit returned as captain for the second Test, things took a turn for the worse. India suffered a heavy defeat in the Day-Night Test.
The momentum from the first Test victory was nowhere to be seen. The situation worsened in the third Test, where rain saved India from a probable defeat. Without the weather intervention, the outcome could have been far grimmer. In the fourth Test, Rohit’s poor form continued, failing to last even ten balls in his innings.
Young players have been sacrificing their opportunities to accommodate Rohit, who has struggled to deliver. Giving these young talents more chances could help build a stronger future. Despite his failures, Rohit’s position as captain seems to shield him from being sidelined.
Former Indian cricketers have criticized Rohit not only for his batting but also for his leadership. Before the first Test, expectations from Team India were minimal, yet they delivered a stellar performance under Bumrah. Once Rohit resumed his role, the team’s performance saw a sharp decline.
When it comes to Virat Kohli, his repeated dismissals to similar deliveries expose a basic flaw in his technique. Fans and experts alike are questioning how a batsman of his stature has not addressed this fundamental weakness after so many years.
While Rohit and Virat enjoy unmatched fame and financial success, their inability to focus on improving their basics has become evident. Moving forward, it might be wise to sideline them and give younger players opportunities.
Interestingly, India has performed well in the absence of its star players in the past. The previous Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory came under Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy, proving that success doesn’t always depend on big names.
As India gears up for the rest of the series, the spotlight remains on Rohit and Virat. If their form doesn’t improve, the calls for a generational shift in the Indian cricket team will only grow louder.
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