Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes that the upcoming Test series against Australia could be a watershed moment for senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin. Following India’s humiliating 0-3 Test series defeat against New Zealand at home, questions have been raised about the future of these star players.
In an interview with India Today, Gavaskar emphasized that there are numerous talented young players eager for opportunities, and the Australia series could be the last chance for some senior players to prove their worth. “I think it could be a tour which could decide a lot of futures,” Gavaskar said. “They are at an age and stage in their careers where there will be a second ring of players looking to get an opportunity.”
According to a report by PTI, the BCCI is evaluating the shocking defeat against New Zealand and considering a structured phaseout policy for senior players before the start of the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The five-match Test series against Australia could be the final one for at least two of the four senior players: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin.
An informal discussion is expected between BCCI officials, the chairman of selectors, the head coach, and the captain to determine the future of the aging team. “Stocks will be taken certainly,” a senior BCCI source told PTI. “But with the Australia series round the corner and the squad already announced, there won’t be any tinkering.”
However, if India fails to qualify for the WTC final in England, it is likely that all four senior players will not be part of the team for the subsequent five-Test series in the UK. “In any case, all four have likely played their final Test at home together,” the source added.
The upcoming Test series against Australia will be a crucial test for the Indian team and its senior players. The results could have a significant impact on the future of Indian cricket and the transition to a new generation of players.
