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Former Indian captain Kris Srikkanth has shared his views on the future of current Test skipper Rohit Sharma, addressing the challenges the 37-year-old is facing in red-ball cricket. With Rohit enduring a rough patch in the longest format and questions looming over his form, Srikkanth’s insights add to the ongoing discussion about the veteran batter’s role in the format and what might lie ahead for him.
Rohit Sharma’s struggles in Test cricket under scrutiny
Notably, Rohit has been facing a lean patch in the longest format, averaging below 14 runs in his last 10 innings with only one score above fifty. Questions regarding his place in the Test lineup have become more pronounced following India’s 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand under his leadership, making it a challenging phase for the Indian captain.
Kris Srikkanth on Rohit’s future in Tests
Srikkanth suggested that Rohit may retire from Test cricket if he fails to perform in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia in 2024-25. He reckoned the Indian skipper’s ongoing slump and India’s recent defeats could signal a turning point in Rohit’s career.
Srikkanth pointed out that if Rohit doesn’t perform well in the Border-Gavaskar series, he may choose to limit himself to ODIs, especially as he has already stepped away from T20 Internationals. He also highlighted that Rohit’s age might influence such a decision, as the seasoned player could be looking to optimize his performance in a single format.
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“You have to start thinking ahead if India doesn’t perform well against Australia. If Rohit Sharma doesn’t succeed, I think he might retire from Test cricket and focus only on ODIs. He’s already moved on from T20Is, and we must consider that he’s not getting any younger,” Srikkanth remarked on his YouTube channel.
Commendation for Rohit’s accountability amid struggles
Despite Rohit’s recent form, Srikkanth praised him for honestly admitting his shortcomings in both batting and captaincy during the New Zealand series. He noted this openness as an encouraging sign for improvement.
“Hats off to Rohit Sharma for having the courage to accept his poor performance in both batting and captaincy. That’s the first step to regaining rhythm. Owning up to mistakes is an important quality, and by doing so, I believe Rohit is on the path to recovery,” Srikkanth added.
