Navjot Singh Sidhu has thrown his weight behind Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, expressing confidence that India’s star batters will overcome their current struggles and return to their best. Speaking to Sports Today, Sidhu emphasized their proven track records and pivotal roles in India’s cricketing success, urging fans and critics to exercise patience.
India’s recent woes in Test cricket, including a disappointing 3-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy defeat to Australia, have fueled doubts about Rohit and Kohli’s futures in the format. Their inconsistent performances, coupled with the team’s lacklustre display, have drawn sharp criticism. However, Sidhu remains optimistic, highlighting Kohli’s knack for self-analysis and Rohit’s need to focus on fitness as keys to their resurgence.
“Someone who has scored 80 centuries and nearly 10,000 runs (Virat Kohli) doesn’t need external advice. He’ll watch the videos, identify his mistakes, and correct them. That’s his strength. The same applies to Rohit,” Navjot Singh Sidhu said, defending the duo’s ability to self-correct.
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Sidhu dismissed comparisons between Rohit and Kohli, calling them “odious.” He praised Rohit’s talent and resilience, recalling his standout performances in crucial moments. “Rohit is pure gold. People forget it was this Rohit Sharma who smashed Mitchell Starc for three sixes in the T20 World Cup. Yes, he struggled against Australia, but he’s human. With more practice, he’ll regain his touch,” Navjot Singh Sidhu added.
Rohit Sharma’s recent form has been a cause for concern. The Indian captain managed only 164 runs across 15 innings in the 2024-25 season, averaging a mere 10.93. His captaincy also came under fire, with critics pointing to a lack of clarity in decision-making, particularly during India’s shocking 0-3 series loss to New Zealand. Despite the slump, Rohit quelled rumours about his Test retirement during an interview at the Sydney Test, pointing to his leadership in India’s victorious 2024 T20 World Cup campaign as proof of his capabilities.
For Virat Kohli, the story has been one of intermittent brilliance. While he dazzled with a century in Perth during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, his form tapered off, scoring just 85 runs in the final four Tests. Bowlers exploited his tendency to play away from the body, raising concerns about his adaptability.
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Navjot Singh Sidhu remains unwavering in his belief that Kohli will rise again. “Kohli thrives on challenges. This phase is just another hurdle he’ll overcome,” he stated confidently.
With the Champions Trophy and a crucial ODI series against England on the horizon, both Rohit and Kohli face immense pressure to deliver. Sidhu’s message, however, is clear: their past achievements have earned them the right to a longer leash. For India to succeed in the coming months, the contributions of these two stalwarts will remain indispensable.
