Have Rohit and Kohli Played Their Last Test in India? Major Changes Likely in Indian Cricket Team!
It is being speculated that several senior players in the Indian team could see their futures decided after the upcoming tour of Australia. The doors to the national team might permanently close for players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja.
Following the recent Test series whitewash against New Zealand, the Indian cricket board is reportedly assessing the situation closely. They may consider gradually phasing out senior players ahead of the next World Test Championship.
Many believe that the Australia tour may serve as the last opportunity for Rohit, Kohli, Ashwin, and Jadeja, as each is in the latter stages of their international careers. A poor performance could lead to a decisive change.
In the next few days, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, coach Gautam Gambhir, and captain Rohit Sharma are expected to have a general discussion with board officials. However, no major decisions are expected during this meeting.
A board source stated, “There will be a discussion about the New Zealand series results. Before the team leaves for Australia on November 10, a general discussion will take place. There’s no denying that the recent loss was a big setback. However, with the Australia series just around the corner, and the squad already announced, no changes are likely.”
The source also mentioned, “If India fails to qualify for the World Test Championship final, then it’s almost certain that these four senior players won’t be on the flight for the next England tour. They may have already played their last Test on home soil.”
Notably, after the World Test Championship final, India will play a five-Test series in England, marking the start of the next World Test Championship cycle.
The board does not want a repeat of 2011, when a senior-heavy team suddenly saw a dip in performance. Thus, Agarkar and Gambhir might discuss future plans with the senior players to gauge their intentions.
Even if these four players step aside, India’s next generation seems ready to take over. Players like Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal could be brought into the Test squad. Washington Sundar is being viewed as a long-term replacement for Ashwin, while Axar Patel and Manav Suthar are prepared to step in for Jadeja.
