The recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy turned out to be a forgettable chapter for Team India, leaving much to ponder for its key players. Rohit Sharma, unavailable for the series opener due to personal commitments, struggled upon his return. His time in the series was marked by poor form with the bat, managing only 31 runs across five innings. Additionally, his captaincy decisions came under scrutiny, culminating in him opting out of the final Test.

Virat Kohli’s series was equally disappointing, especially given the high expectations placed on him based on his previous performances against Australia. Although he started with a century in the second innings of the first Test, his form quickly deteriorated, scoring just 90 runs in his remaining eight innings. His vulnerability to deliveries pitched outside the off-stump once again became a glaring issue, adding to his struggles in the series.

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With the second half of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy set to resume on January 23, 2025, there has been growing consensus among former players and cricket analysts that both Rohit and Kohli could benefit from returning to domestic cricket. They believe this move could help the senior players refine their red-ball skills and regain the rhythm essential for Test cricket.

A team management member, speaking to The Indian Express, echoed this sentiment. “Playing domestic cricket might not solve every issue, but it can help Test players get the rhythm needed for the longest format. Without regular game time, their performance can stagnate. The switch from white-ball to red-ball cricket is particularly challenging. Frequent participation in Ranji games can restore that rhythm,” he explained.

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India’s next red-ball challenge will be a high-stakes five-match series against England, scheduled between June and August this year. The focus will undoubtedly be on whether Rohit and Kohli choose to embrace the domestic circuit to prepare themselves for this crucial assignment. Their form and approach leading up to the England series will be critical in determining India’s prospects in the demanding overseas conditions. As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on these seasoned stalwarts and their path to rediscovery.