SYDNEY: Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir on Sunday emphasised that the decision regarding the Test futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli lies entirely with them, praising their resilience and hunger for the game.
Speaking after India’s six-wicket loss to Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Gambhir said the duo will "decide what is best for Indian cricket."
“They are tough individuals with immense hunger for the game; they’ll decide what is best for Indian cricket,” said Gambhir.
“To maintain harmony in the dressing room, I must be honest and fair to everyone. Rohit Sharma demonstrated accountability at the top,” he added.
India’s 3-1 series defeat marked Australia’s first Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory since 2017.
Rohit Sharma scored only 31 runs across five innings, while Virat Kohli’s sole notable contribution was an unbeaten century in Perth.
The former captain struggled with consistency, repeatedly falling to deliveries outside the off-stump despite experimenting with different techniques and approaches.
Rohit’s performances were equally disappointing as he shuffled between middle-order and opening roles without success.
His decision to replace Shubman Gill at the top of the order in the fourth Test further exposed India’s fragile batting lineup.
India’s Test record under the leadership of Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir has been far from ideal, with the team winning just three of their last ten matches. This includes a home series loss to New Zealand and an away defeat to Australia.
With younger players waiting for opportunities and a five-month gap before their next Test assignment, the team faces mounting pressure to chart a new course.
Australia’s dominant victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy secured their place in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s in June.
Pat Cummins’ side will face South Africa, who qualified with a thrilling two-wicket win over Pakistan in the Boxing Day Test.
With Sri Lanka unable to overtake either team, the stage is set for an enthralling showdown between Australia and the Proteas at the iconic venue, beginning June 11.
- Gautam Gambhir
- Virat Kohli
- Rohit Sharma
