Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, has sharply criticized senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma following India’s 184-run defeat against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne. Kohli, in particular, continues to struggle with deliveries outside the off-stump, an issue that once again came to the fore during this match. Kohli was dismissed for a low score after edging a Mitchell Starc delivery to the slip cordon. Despite making adjustments to his stance, Kohli’s technique remains under scrutiny. Gavaskar emphasized that Kohli’s tendency to get out in the same manner suggests a deeper technical issue that requires urgent attention—”Ilaaj karna padega.”
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Kohli’s Continued Struggles: A Technical Issue?
While Kohli’s form has been inconsistent, Gavaskar pointed out that the manner in which he is getting out—specifically to deliveries outside the off-stump—indicates more than just a lack of luck or poor form. Gavaskar suggested that these repeated dismissals signal the need for a deeper review and solution. “The way they are getting out, it seems like there is another issue,” Gavaskar remarked. He stressed the importance of addressing this flaw before it becomes a bigger problem for Kohli, especially with upcoming crucial series and matches.
Rohit Sharma’s Future: Retirement Possibilities
Gavaskar didn’t spare Rohit Sharma either, expressing concern over his inability to score runs in critical matches. He suggested that if Rohit fails to deliver in the upcoming Test match in Sydney, it might be time for the veteran batsman to consider retirement. This comment came in light of India’s deteriorating position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, as a loss in the final Test would almost certainly eliminate India from contention for the WTC final.
WTC Final: A Do-or-Die Test for India
Australia’s dominant win in Melbourne has put them in a strong position to qualify for the WTC final at Lord’s next year. India, however, is in a must-win situation for the final Test at Sydney. Gavaskar emphasized the importance of the upcoming series against England, which will kick off the next WTC cycle. If India fails to qualify for the WTC final this year, it could signal the need for fresh faces in the team, particularly with the 2027 WTC cycle in mind.
Key Takeaways
- Kohli’s struggles with deliveries outside the off-stump are causing concern for both his form and technique.
- Rohit Sharma is under pressure to perform, with Gavaskar hinting at retirement if he fails to score in Sydney.
- India faces a critical Test in Sydney to keep their WTC final hopes alive, and a loss will effectively end their chances.
- The next WTC cycle, starting with the series against England in June 2025, could see new faces if senior players continue to falter.
India’s senior players now find themselves under intense scrutiny, with questions surrounding both their form and future. With the WTC final on the line, the team’s response in the Sydney Test will be crucial for maintaining their hopes in the championship race.