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NEW DELHI:
In the recent three-Test series against New Zealand, Rohit Sharma managed to score only 91 runs across six innings, while Virat Kohli ended with a mere 93 runs. The performances of both senior players were disappointing, contributing to India’s 3-0 whitewash.
With the five-match Test series against Australia set to commence on November 22 in Perth, concerns are growing regarding the form of these two key players. India hopes they can regain their scoring touch when the series begins in Australia, and they are receiving strong support from former Indian cricket legends. Kapil Dev, the former captain, remains optimistic and has expressed confidence in the experienced duo ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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India’s pace attack will be heavily reliant on Jasprit Bumrah during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
“Just apply yourself. Rohit and Virat have proven themselves over 15 years of cricket. They’re among the best. Sometimes, it’s about focusing a bit more. I’d just tell them to go out there, enjoy, and express themselves. Forget about this last series,” Kapil stated in an interview.
India faced humiliation in their last series against New Zealand at home, marking the first instance of a clean sweep of three or more Tests on home soil in the country’s cricketing history. New Zealand became the first team in 12 years to win a Test series in India.
“If you forget about this series, Indian cricket has been doing fairly well overall, and I wish them all the luck. When there’s an issue, it’s crucial to rectify it quickly. We’re proud of our spinners, batsmen, and bowlers. Good luck to them for the BGT,” Kapil added.
India has previously achieved consecutive series victories in Australia — first under Virat Kohli’s captaincy in 2018-19, and then under Ajinkya Rahane in 2020-21. Now, with Rohit Sharma leading the team, India aims for a historic third straight series win on Australian soil.
“The rough patch has passed. Now, let’s focus on the positives, and I hope they play well. This is all I’d like to convey to Rohit’s team. Good luck, and best wishes to the Indian team,” he concluded.
Following the opening Test in Perth, the second match will be a day-night Test at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The series will then move to The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test from December 14 to 18, followed by the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The fifth and final Test will take place in Sydney, starting on January 3.
