After India’s loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, questions have been raised about the futures of captain Rohit Sharma and senior batter Virat Kohli. Rohit stepped down from the final Test, while Kohli struggled with poor form throughout the series. Head coach Gautam Gambhir supported both players but said the final decision about their careers depends on them. He added that both still have hunger and passion for the game and will make decisions in the best interest of Indian cricket.
Rohit has had a poor run in Test cricket, averaging just 10.93 in his last eight matches with only one fifty. He clarified that he is not retiring from Test cricket yet but felt stepping down in the last match was best for the team. Meanwhile, Kohli scored a century in Perth but struggled outside the off-stump in other innings, getting dismissed in slips or by the wicketkeeper. Kohli’s frustration was visible as he reacted emotionally during matches.
Gambhir said players know their form and hunger, and their contribution must help the team move forward. He stressed the importance of fairness, treating all players equally, whether they are debutants or experienced ones. He also mentioned it’s too early to decide about the future of the Test team, as there are five months before the next Test series in June 2025 against England. Plans will be made closer to that time, considering any changes in form and fitness.
Before that, India will play England in T20I and ODI series at home, followed by the Champions Trophy in the UAE. Players not selected for these matches can play domestic cricket like the Ranji Trophy. Gambhir highlighted the importance of domestic cricket and said players should prioritise it to improve their red-ball skills and strengthen the Test team.
