Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra believes discussions about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Test futures should be postponed until after the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. He expressed optimism about the duo and Team India putting in strong performances in the remaining matches of the series.
India and Australia are currently level at 1-1 after two gripping Test matches. The third Test, underway in Brisbane, saw India reach 28 without loss on a rain-affected opening day, Saturday, December 14.
Let the Series Conclude First
In a video on his YouTube channel Aakash Chopra, the former Indian opener addressed whether the BGT 2024-25 could mark the end of Kohli and Rohit’s Test careers.
“Let’s not jump to conclusions right now. There are still matches left in this series. Let’s allow them to finish it. I hope both perform well, and the Indian team excels too,” Chopra remarked. He further added, “Discussions about their future can wait until after the series. They are also likely to feature in the Champions Trophy, provided it’s in the ODI format. If it’s a T20I tournament, they might not play.”
India’s Path Forward Hinges on WTC Qualification
Chopra highlighted that India’s approach to their Test setup might depend on their qualification for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
“Post-series, decisions will revolve around WTC qualification and the upcoming cycle, which begins in England. Questions will arise about whether to stick with the same core group or press the reset button. Those are conversations for later,” he explained.
While Chopra expressed hope that this wouldn’t be the final Test series for Rohit and Kohli, he acknowledged that no one can predict the future.
Rohit and Kohli’s Recent Performances Under Scrutiny
Rohit Sharma, who missed the series opener in Perth, has struggled for runs, with an average of just 11.83 across his last 12 Test innings. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, despite a sublime unbeaten century in Perth, has failed to deliver consistent performances, falling cheaply in three of his four innings so far.
Addressing Rohit’s Form and Leadership
When questioned about Rohit Sharma not facing enough criticism for his poor form or defensive captaincy, Chopra stated, “Criticism has been voiced, especially on AakashVani. No player is beyond scrutiny. However, you tend to offer some leeway to players with proven track records.”
Chopra acknowledged that Rohit’s prolonged slump with the bat and his captaincy style are valid concerns.
“Rohit has managed just one half-century in his last 12 innings. This is a problem, and there’s pressure on him. His captaincy has also appeared defensive at times, allowing the game to drift,” Chopra observed.
Drawing Comparisons with MS Dhoni
Chopra compared Rohit’s captaincy with that of former skipper MS Dhoni, noting similarities in their approach. However, he pointed out a key difference:
“While Dhoni often employed a similar defensive strategy, he didn’t have the luxury of a bowler like Jasprit Bumrah in his arsenal, unlike Rohit.”
Closing Thoughts
While questions about the Test futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli persist, Aakash Chopra has emphasized the importance of focusing on the ongoing series and supporting the team to deliver its best. Decisions regarding their roles in the longer format, he suggests, should wait until the conclusion of this high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
SOURCE: Sportkeeda.com
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