Gambhir: ‘I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket’
India’s defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has raised questions about the future of two key players: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit stepped down as captain during the Sydney Test, and Kohli’s form has been inconsistent. Both are central figures in Indian cricket, but their future in Test cricket is uncertain.
Gautam Gambhir, former cricketer and current head coach, addressed the situation. He offered support to both players but stressed that the decision about their careers lies with them. Let’s explore Gambhir’s thoughts on Rohit and Kohli moving forward in Test cricket.
Gambhir said. “That is how much importance domestic cricket needs to be given. Not only one game. If they’re available and they have the commitment to play red-ball cricket, everyone should play domestic cricket. As simple as it can get.
Rohit Sharma: Struggling for Form
Rohit Sharma’s recent Test performances have been disappointing. Over his last eight matches, his average has dropped to just 10.93. He has scored only one fifty-plus score during this period. In the series, Rohit decided to sit out the fifth Test. He believed it would be hard for the team to win with so many out-of-form batters.
Despite his struggles, Rohit clarified that he is not retiring from Test cricket. Gambhir understands that all cricketers go through rough patches. He acknowledged that Rohit’s hunger for the game still exists. It’s up to Rohit to decide if he wants to continue playing and contributing to the team.
Gambhir himself experienced a similar phase in his career. He struggled with form but kept battling to stay in the team. According to Gambhir, what matters most for any player is their desire to keep playing. For Rohit, this passion is still visible. If he feels he can contribute, he should continue playing.
Virat Kohli: Frustration and Determination
Virat Kohli has been one of India’s best Test players, but his recent form has been a concern. Though he scored a brilliant hundred in Perth, his other innings have been plagued by the same issue: his vulnerability outside the off-stump. In the series, Kohli was dismissed for low scores several times, caught by the wicketkeeper or in the slips.
Gambhir said that every player knows when their game is off. They understand whether they still have the drive to keep playing. Kohli’s frustration after another dismissal in Sydney was clear when he yelled at himself. However, Gambhir believes that Kohli’s hunger and passion for the game remain. It’s up to him to decide whether he still has the desire to continue in Test cricket.
As Kohli reaches the later stages of his career, he will need to evaluate his future. If he feels his contributions can still help the team, he should continue playing. But if the hunger fades, it might be time to step aside.
Gambhir’s Support: Fairness to All Players
Gambhir also talked about fairness in team management. He believes that a coach’s job is to be fair to all players, regardless of their experience. Whether a player is new or has played 100 Test matches, they should be treated equally.
When asked about the future of Rohit and Kohli, Gambhir emphasized that decisions will be made in the best interest of Indian cricket. He pointed out that younger players are emerging, and the team must continue to evolve. Gambhir stressed that every player must constantly prove themselves. For him, it’s about ensuring fairness across the board.
In his role, Gambhir is focused on giving every player a fair chance. He believes this is key to maintaining the integrity of the team.
Gambhir on the Road Ahead: Planning for the Future of Indian Cricket
Looking ahead, Gambhir believes it is still too early to make long-term decisions. India’s next Test series is in June 2025 against England. By then, Rohit will be 38, and Kohli will be nearing 37. Gambhir believes that it’s too early to make predictions about their involvement in that series.
However, he sees the importance of planning for the future. India has a rich pool of young talent. Gambhir hopes that the next generation of players will step up and help continue India’s success in Test cricket. He also mentioned that player form and fitness will evolve in the coming months. He believes it’s crucial to assess where the team stands closer to the 2025 series.
Gambhir highlighted that anything can change in the world of cricket. Form, attitude, and situations all shift over time. Decisions that are made today might not be relevant in the future. This is why he believes it is too early to make firm decisions.
Conclusion: The Choice Is Theirs
The future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in Test cricket is in their hands. Both players have been instrumental to India’s success. However, they must decide if they still have the hunger and drive to continue. Gambhir supports both players but knows that decisions must be based on their individual assessments.
Indian cricket fans hope that both players continue their journey. But if the time comes for them to move on, the focus will shift to the next generation. As Gambhir said, whatever decisions are made will be for the best interest of Indian cricket. The road ahead for Rohit and Kohli is uncertain, but it will be shaped by their passion and commitment to the game.
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