India’s crushing defeat in Melbourne has intensified discussions about the Test careers of captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli. The veteran duo is struggling in the ongoing five-Test series in Australia, and calls for their retirement are growing louder.
India, winners of their previous two Test tours in Australia, now trail 2-1 in the series. After the dramatic loss in Melbourne, the hosts need only a draw in Sydney to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).
Rohit Sharma’s Dismal Form Raises Questions
Rohit Sharma’s form remains a significant concern for India. The 37-year-old has managed just one half-century in his last 15 Test innings. Additionally, he has recorded 10 single-digit scores, further highlighting his struggles. A recent move to the middle order also failed to yield results. Under Rohit’s captaincy, India has suffered five Test losses this season. This matches their worst record set during Sachin Tendulkar’s leadership in the 1999-2000 season.
Virat Kohli Struggles Against Spin and Pace
Virat Kohli, regarded as one of the modern game’s greats, has also endured a challenging season. Although he struck a century in the series opener in Perth, the 36-year-old has been dismissed for single-digit scores in nine of his 17 innings this season. Opponents have effectively exploited his weaknesses against left-arm spin and deliveries outside the off-stump. Consequently, he often appears vulnerable at the crease.
Media and Fans Voice Discontent
Prominent Indian publications have openly questioned the future of Rohit and Kohli.
“Is it time to take a call on seniors Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?” asked the Hindustan Times after India’s collapse in Melbourne. The team lost seven wickets after tea on the final day, sparking widespread criticism. On social media, “happy retirement” trended on Monday as fans shared their frustrations.
The Indian Express speculated on a potential retirement announcement. “The curtain is beginning to slide down from above; will they give themselves one more Test at Sydney with the BGT still open?” Meanwhile, The Times of India advocated for an immediate generational shift. It warned that the senior batters risk becoming liabilities for the team.
Expert Criticism on Rohit, Virat Kohli
Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan was especially critical of Kohli’s recurring mistakes. Highlighting the batter’s struggle to curb his tendency to drive outside the off-stump, Pathan remarked, “The shot by Virat Kohli—this is neither the first nor the last time. He is not letting go of the temptation.”
Pathan also questioned why Kohli, known for his disciplined off-field fitness regimen, could not apply the same discipline to his batting. “We all talk about his discipline—why can’t he bring that discipline onto the field?” he asked.
As India prepares for the Sydney Test, the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the longest format of the game remains uncertain. The next match could determine whether the team’s seasoned veterans bow out gracefully or fight to reclaim their place in the Test arena.
