Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s struggles with the bat have become a significant concern for Team India, especially after their recent 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand. In their last 10 Test innings, Rohit has managed to accumulate just 133 runs, while Kohli has fared slightly better with only 192 runs to his name. The alarming lack of runs from these seasoned players has not only affected their individual confidence but has also contributed to the overall instability of the Indian batting lineup.
Following the disappointing defeat, former India cricketer Pragyan Ojha highlighted the crucial role that these senior players must play moving forward, particularly after India’s unsuccessful chase of a modest target of 146 runs.
“They need to take full responsibility because they are senior players. Their current poor form is exacerbating India’s collapse,” Pragyan Ojha remarked during a post-match discussion on Cricbuzz. He emphasized the importance of experience in a young team where Kohli and Rohit are the only players above 30 in the top order against New Zealand.
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The younger players, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal (22), Shubman Gill (25), and Rishabh Pant and Sarfaraz Khan (both 27), are looking to their senior counterparts for guidance and stability during challenging times. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy looming, Ojha pointed out that the upcoming series in Australia would be a pivotal moment for both Kohli and Rohit.
“If they find their form there, it will provide some comfort to the team. But given the circumstances, Australia will have an advantage, particularly in the mind games, since they’ll know India is coming off a home series loss,” he warned.
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While India has triumphed in their last two Test series in Australia, both Rohit and Kohli face their own unique challenges. Notably, Kohli did not play in three of the four Tests during the 2020-21 series, and Rohit may miss the first Test in Perth for personal reasons. As they prepare for this crucial series, the pressure is mounting on these experienced players to deliver the performances that the team desperately needs.
