- Team India’s script in the recently concluded five-match Test series went awry is stating the obvious. What was touted as one of the marquee contests between the two equally balanced teams eventually turned out to be a lop-sided one with the Aussies prevailing over Team India by pocketing the series 3-1. Yes, there were several moments in the series when Team India could have turned things around but the failure of the batters to rise to the occasion led to the eventual scoreline. A few top knocks did ensure in the series but sporadically as two significant knocks did result in Team India winning the first Test at Perth much against the popular perception. However, the collective failure of the batters to put up big runs proved to be our nemesis.
PC: The Indian Express
- The moot point to ponder over here is the way two of the biggest names in the international circuit failed to deliver when the expectations were so high. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are not only proven performers over the years but also have delivered quite consistently to take Team India to several glories. Especially Virat Kohli who has been a terrific performer with such amazing consistency on the back of a wonderful work ethic. Unfortunately, the statistics will not lie and the returns from the blade of Kohli have remained concerning as compared to his peers like Joe Root, Kane Williamson, and Steven Smith. Though Kohli has showcased his amazing consistency in the shorter formats, the classic format has been a bit disappointing from the lofty standards he’s set.
PC: NewsBytes
- Team India’s pace bowling reserves are fantastic led by the indefatigable Jasprit Bumrah who was rightly named as the player of the series. The spin department must be strengthened with the departure of the great Ravichandran Ashwin who retired right in the middle of the series after being neglected for selection in the playing eleven. Jadeja continues to ply his trade with messianic zeal though. He has a couple of years of Test match cricket still left for sure. Most intriguingly, the questions will be raised by all concerned about the future of cricketers like Rohit and Kohli. Remember, both are not getting any younger as the body would be reluctant to be in sync with the mind still willing to plow on.
PC: CricInformer
This is where the selectors should step in to ensure the transition period of Indian cricket is handled with dexterity, professionalism, and impartiality. Of course, the players will decide when to resign is the oft-remarked statement emanating from the proven performers. Nonetheless, it is the selector’s decision who they select to represent Team India. Thus, the selectors should waste no time in having an honest chat with the senior players to make them understand what is good for Indian cricket in the coming years. If it requires pulling the plug on the careers of some big names, so bit it. Indian cricket is in safe hands producing top-class performers in hordes. It’s time to blood the deserving youngsters to ensure the transition is as safe as possible.
