India’s Test cricket future appears uncertain following a dismal performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, particularly for seasoned players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Both veterans are now under scrutiny as discussions about their roles in the red-ball format gain momentum. While head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed his support for them, he emphasized that the ultimate decision lies in their hands.
Table of Contents
Rohit and Kohli Under the Scanner
Rohit Sharma, India’s skipper, has had a challenging time in Test cricket, averaging just 10.93 across his last eight matches with a solitary fifty-plus score. His decision to step down for the Sydney Test raised eyebrows, but Rohit clarified his intentions. Speaking to Star Sports, he stated, “I had taken the decision to sit out the fifth Test because I thought it would have been hard for the team to win carrying so many out-of-form batters.” However, he also made it clear that he isn’t retiring from Test cricket yet.
Virat Kohli, on the other hand, has faced technical struggles, particularly with deliveries outside the off-stump. Despite a scintillating unbeaten hundred in Perth, his other outings have been marked by dismissals edging to slips or the wicketkeeper. His frustration was evident in Melbourne and Sydney, where dismissals left him visibly dejected.
Gambhir’s Take on the Future of Senior Players
When questioned about the futures of Sharma and Kohli, Gambhir responded diplomatically, stating, “I can’t talk about the future of any player. It’s up to them as well. But yes, what I can say is that they still have the hunger. They still have the passion. They’re tough people. And hopefully, they can continue to take Indian cricket forward.”
Gambhir, drawing from his own experience as a player who battled form issues late in his career, added, “Every individual knows where their game and hunger is. It’s about how hungry you are, how passionate you are, and whether the team is moving forward with your contribution or not.”
The coach also emphasized his responsibility to remain impartial, saying, “If I’m fair to only two or three individuals, and not to everyone else, then I’m being dishonest to my job.”
The Road Ahead for Indian Test Cricket
India does not have another Test series scheduled until June 2025, when they tour England for a five-match series. By then, Rohit will be 38, and Kohli will be approaching 37. With no immediate red-ball cricket in sight, Gambhir believes there’s time to evaluate the team’s direction.
“Look, it’s too early to talk about it. The series has just got over. We still have five more months to plan where we want to head towards. A lot of things change in sport. Forms change. People change. Attitudes change. Everything changes in sport. Let’s see before the [England] series what’s going to happen,” Gambhir said.
The Importance of Domestic Cricket
For players aiming to reclaim or cement their spots in Test cricket, Gambhir highlighted the significance of domestic cricket. With the Ranji Trophy resuming in January, Gambhir stressed its role in shaping Test players.
“I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket. That is how much importance domestic cricket needs to be given. If they’re available and have the commitment to play red-ball cricket, everyone should play domestic cricket. If you don’t give importance to domestic cricket, you will never get the desired players for Test cricket,” he said.
As India’s cricketing calendar now focuses on white-ball tournaments, the futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in Test cricket remain uncertain. While their hunger and passion are unquestionable, the decision to continue lies solely with them. With ample time before their next Test assignment, both players must assess their roles and contributions to Indian cricket. Gambhir’s balanced approach and insistence on fairness highlight the need for meritocracy and preparedness, both of which are vital for India’s red-ball resurgence.
Read More: Australia vs India 5th Test: Day 3 Match Report As Australia Reclaim BGT Trophy After 10 Years
FAQs
Why are Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Test cricket futures under scrutiny?
Following a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, questions arose due to Rohit’s poor form (averaging 10.93 in eight matches) and Kohli’s repeated dismissals outside the off-stump.
What did Gautam Gambhir say about Kohli and Rohit’s future in Test cricket?
Gambhir said the decision lies with the players, emphasizing their hunger and passion for the game while stressing fairness in team selection.
Has Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket?
No, Rohit clarified that he is not retiring and stepped down in the Sydney Test to prioritize the team’s performance amidst out-of-form batters.
What are Gambhir’s thoughts on domestic cricket for senior players?
Gambhir emphasized the importance of domestic cricket, urging all players committed to red-ball cricket to participate in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy.
When is India’s next Test series scheduled?
India’s next Test series is in June 2025, a five-match tour of England, giving ample time to reassess the team’s roadmap.
