The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 has witnessed a disappointing performance from two of India’s most celebrated cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. On the final day of the fourth Test match in Melbourne, with India chasing a daunting target of 340 runs, both players were dismissed early, adding fuel to the growing concerns about their form. This has triggered a wave of reactions on social media, with fans expressing frustration and even calling for their retirement.
The Fourth Test Match: A Disappointing Day for Indian Openers
Chasing 340 runs to win on the last day of the Melbourne Test, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were unable to provide the stability India so desperately needed. Starting the day at 228/9, Australia added just six more runs to their total before Jasprit Bumrah sent Nathan Lyon back to the pavilion. With the mountain of runs to chase, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal were tasked with providing a solid start. Rohit, adopting a more cautious approach compared to his usual attacking style, faced 40 balls but was dismissed for just 9. A delivery from Pat Cummins that angled in on the off-side forced Rohit into a thick edge, caught by Mitchell Marsh at slips.
As if the early loss wasn’t enough, KL Rahul followed suit in the same over, falling for a duck. The pressure was mounting on Virat Kohli, who joined Jaiswal at the crease. Kohli, too, tried to play cautiously, but the pressure seemed to get to him. His 29-ball stint at the crease ended when he fell for just 5, chasing a delivery outside off-stump—a recurring issue for the former captain. The timing of his dismissal, just before lunch, left Indian fans despondent and questioning the form of their star players.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Recent Struggles: A Dismal 2024 Performance
The struggles of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the ongoing series are not just confined to this Test match. Kohli’s performance in 2024 has been underwhelming, with 19 innings in which he scored 417 runs at an average of 24.52. Rohit Sharma, despite playing 26 innings, has managed just 619 runs at an average of 24.76. These statistics are far from the standards expected from players of their caliber, especially in a format like Test cricket, where consistency is key.
Their lack of big scores in crucial moments has raised questions about their future in the longest format of the game. With India’s leadership transition on the horizon, fans are beginning to wonder if the time has come for these stalwarts to step aside and make way for younger talent.
Fan Reactions: Calls for Retirement Grow Louder
The disappointment of fans on social media has been palpable. As soon as both Kohli and Rohit fell cheaply, the hashtag #HappyRetirement began trending. Many fans expressed their frustration, pointing out the consistency of their failures in recent years.
One user tweeted, “Kohli and Sharma have won us many matches, but with due respect, it’s time for them to retire. If truth be told, we could’ve won the BGT if Bumrah had continued to lead.” Another user added, “Literally, he (Kohli) is mentally done. Same thing for four years isn’t a joke. Happy Retirement.” Some even took a more direct approach, calling for an end to their Test careers: “Rohit & Virat retire from Tests. Thank you for the memories. Happy Retirement #INDvsAUS.”
While the criticism is harsh, it also highlights the frustration of Indian cricket fans, who expect more from their senior players in such high-stakes encounters.
Is Retirement on the Horizon for Rohit and Kohli?
As both players continue to face scrutiny, the question remains: are we nearing the end of an era? Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been integral to India’s success in all formats of the game, but their recent form in Test cricket has raised doubts about their longevity. The upcoming series against Australia and other challenges may determine whether they can rediscover their form or whether it’s time to pass the baton to the next generation.
In the coming months, selectors, coaches, and the players themselves will need to assess their positions in the team. While there is no denying their immense contributions to Indian cricket, their current form in Test cricket is a cause for concern. If their struggles continue, the decision for both Rohit and Kohli to retire may not be a matter of if, but when.
Conclusion: The Future of Indian Cricket
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s flop show in the BGT 2024-25 has brought them under the microscope. While both players have had illustrious careers, their recent performances suggest they may not have much left to give in Test cricket. As fans demand their retirement, the future of Indian cricket looks bright with young talents like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and others emerging on the scene. However, the transition will need to be handled carefully to maintain India’s dominance in world cricket.
The ongoing BGT series may be the turning point for Kohli and Rohit, either reigniting their form or signaling the end of an era. Only time will tell. For now, the debate continues.
