The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia is not just another chapter in the heated India-Australia rivalry; it may also mark the end of an era for some iconic Indian cricketers. The recent shocking series defeat to New Zealand exposed several cracks within India’s Test lineup.
Although the Indian team has seen unparalleled success, especially on their last two Australian tours, the time for transition appears imminent. As the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for 2023-25 nears its conclusion, there’s an increasing call for change. This article explores three veterans who should consider stepping away from the Test format post this series to allow fresh talent to take center stage.
Table of Contents
3 Indian Cricketers Who Should Retire from Test Cricket After Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
1. Rohit Sharma: The Limited-Overs Star with Waning Test Form
Rohit Sharma’s prowess in limited-overs cricket has been a key asset for India. Known for his aggressive style and impressive captaincy in white-ball formats, Rohit’s Test performance, however, has been underwhelming in recent years. His form took a serious hit in the recent series against New Zealand, where his average dipped to just 29 in 2024. While the limited-overs format allows him to thrive, the demands of Test cricket have seemingly worn down his ability to build long innings.
The frustration among fans largely stems from Rohit’s tendency to throw away promising starts after a few flashy boundaries. This reckless approach has not only hindered his own performance but also exposed India’s middle order to fresh bowling attacks. With promising young openers like Abhimanyu Easwaran and Ruturaj Gaikwad waiting in the wings, Rohit’s retirement from Test cricket could pave the way for a fresh approach at the top order. At 37, with a T20I retirement already behind him, focusing on ODIs could allow him to fully leverage his strengths in limited-overs formats.
2. Ravichandran Ashwin: A Master of Asian Conditions
Ravichandran Ashwin has been an instrumental figure in India’s Test success, especially on home soil, where his spin has proven lethal for over a decade. Renowned for his tactical intelligence and as a key figure in India’s leadership think tank, Ashwin’s contributions are undisputed. However, with the next WTC cycle extending to 2027, the Indian team might need to begin preparing for a future without Ashwin’s wizardry.
Washington Sundar’s impressive performances against New Zealand provided glimpses of a smooth transition. Despite missing the first Test, Sundar emerged as the standout bowler for India, displaying skills that align with the demands of modern-day Test cricket. Additionally, Sundar’s batting abilities add depth, making him an ideal candidate to eventually replace Ashwin. At 38, Ashwin’s role may soon shift towards mentoring younger talents rather than leading from the front. This gradual handover would allow India to move into the next phase of Test cricket without compromising their balance in spin-friendly conditions.
3. Virat Kohli: A Legend Confronting a Test Decline
Virat Kohli’s contributions to Indian cricket are monumental, but his recent struggles in the longest format are hard to ignore. In 2024, Kohli has averaged a dismal 22.72, managing just 250 runs across 12 innings. The decline in his form, especially against spin, has been glaring. Left-arm spinners like Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner proved to be formidable challenges, underscoring Kohli’s waning prowess against spin—a strength that was once his signature.
The statistics reveal an uncomfortable reality: Kohli has averaged over 30 just once in the last five years in Test cricket. His prolonged slump has sparked conversations about his future in the format, with many suggesting that retirement from Tests could allow him to concentrate on ODIs. Given that Kohli has already retired from T20Is, moving away from Test cricket could grant him more time to refine his skills for ODIs, a format that has always suited his aggressive yet calculated style. While his departure from Tests would be an emotional moment for fans, it could prove beneficial for both him and the team’s future trajectory.
A Step Towards a Renewed Indian Test Team
India’s proud cricketing heritage often emphasizes honoring the legacies of its iconic players. However, the need for a team transition is now more critical than ever. With potential stalwarts like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Washington Sundar waiting to make a mark, stepping aside gracefully could offer these veterans a dignified exit while ensuring India’s future in the Test arena remains promising.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 might very well be the swansong for Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Virat Kohli in Test cricket. Their contributions to Indian cricket have been immense, and while their absence will undoubtedly leave a void, it’s a necessary step towards building a team capable of contending at the highest level. The Australian tour will thus serve not only as a fierce contest but potentially as a fitting farewell to these legends, giving rise to new stars who will carry India’s Test aspirations forward.
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FAQ
Which Indian cricketers should consider retiring after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25?
Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Virat Kohli are likely candidates for retirement, as their recent performances in Test cricket have shown signs of decline.
Why is Rohit Sharma’s Test form under scrutiny?
Rohit’s Test average has dropped to 29 in 2024, and his habit of losing wickets after brief starts has raised concerns about his consistency in the format.
Who could replace Ashwin as India’s primary spinner in Tests?
Washington Sundar, who impressed in the recent series against New Zealand, appears to be a potential successor to Ashwin due to his all-around skills.
What challenges has Virat Kohli faced in Test cricket lately?
Kohli’s recent struggles, especially against spin, have contributed to a low average of 22.72 in 2024, signaling a potential shift towards focusing on limited-overs formats.
