Chennai, India – The Indian cricket team secured a commanding 280-run victory against Bangladesh in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium last week. However, amidst the celebration, senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli faced significant criticism for their lackluster performances.
Performance Review
Jasprit Bumrah shone with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 50 runs in the opening innings. In stark contrast, Rohit Sharma’s scores of 6 and 5 runs in both innings left fans and analysts disappointed. Kohli managed only 17 runs, further fueling discussions about the future of these experienced players in the national squad.
Despite the struggles of their senior batsmen, the match was highlighted by standout performances from other team members. Ravichandran Ashwin’s century (113) and crucial contributions from Rishabh Pant (109) and Shubman Gill (119*) played pivotal roles in India’s victory. Ashwin also impressed with the ball, claiming 6 wickets, supported by Ravindra Jadeja, who took 3.
Selection Controversy
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is under scrutiny for allegedly providing ‘preferential treatment’ to Rohit and Kohli, as they were not included in the Duleep Trophy tournament, which would have offered them crucial red-ball match practice. Critics argue that this decision may have adversely affected their form.
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed concern over this approach in a discussion with ESPNcricinfo. He remarked that participation in the Duleep Trophy could have been beneficial for both players, suggesting that the selectors need to avoid treating players differently based on their status. “It’s crucial for Indian cricket that all players, regardless of their reputation, are given equal opportunities to perform,” he noted.
Looking Ahead
As the team prepares for the second Test in Kanpur, there is hope that Rohit and Kohli will regain their form. Manjrekar believes that while their recent performances are worrying, both players possess the experience and class to bounce back.
Kohli’s recent statistics highlight a decline, with only 81 runs scored in four innings this year and a total of 401 runs across seven Tests since 2022. This has raised questions about his long-term position in the squad, as many fans and experts await a resurgence in his batting.
Conclusion
While India celebrates their victory over Bangladesh, the performances of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain a focal point of discussion. As the second Test approaches, all eyes will be on these senior players to see if they can silence their critics and contribute significantly to the team’s success. The evolving narrative around player treatment and selection policies continues to shape the discourse in Indian cricket, underscoring the importance of accountability and performance at the highest level.
