Will Virat and Rohit feature in Test Series against England after BGT debacle?

Post Australia's series win, concerns rise over Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's form. Coach Gautam Gambhir defends the duo ahead of England Tests.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

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Following India’s disappointing series defeat against Australia, discussions have intensified regarding the form of two of the team's senior batsmen, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The duo has struggled significantly, averaging in the mid-20s since the beginning of 2024, raising concerns among cricket fans and analysts alike. 

Their lacklustre performances have become a hot topic of conversation, particularly after their inability to deliver when it mattered most during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

According to sources, both Kohli and Rohit are likely to be considered for the upcoming Test series against England, scheduled to commence in June 2025. This announcement comes amid expectations that India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, will remain at the helm as the team prepares for the Champions Trophy as well.

In response to the criticism of the players' performances, Gambhir stated, “Yes, there will be a review meeting, but no firing. You can’t sack a coach for the batters’ poor show in one series.” His commitment to both the players and the coaching staff reflects a desire for stability as the team looks to rebound from recent setbacks.

During the series, India initially won the first Test, but Australia swiftly retaliated, winning three of the subsequent four matches to clinch the series. Kohli managed to score 190 runs in the five Tests, including just one fifty-plus score, while Rohit struggled significantly, accumulating only 31 runs in five innings before opting out of the final Test.

When asked about the future of Kohli and Rohit within the team, Gambhir was non-committal, allowing the experienced duo to decide their paths. “I can’t talk about the future of any player. It is up to them as well. But they still have hunger and passion; they are tough individuals. Hopefully, they can continue to drive Indian cricket forward. Ultimately, whatever they plan will be in the best interest of Indian cricket,” Gambhir concluded.

As the team looks ahead, fans will be eager to see how Kohli and Rohit respond to these challenges and whether they can regain their form in the crucial matches to come.

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