Team India’s disastrous 0-3 Test series defeat against New Zealand has sparked a torrent of criticism, with former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar pinpointing the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the Duleep Trophy as a contributing factor.
Kohli and Sharma had initially agreed to participate in the domestic red-ball event but withdrew at the last moment, citing a “lack of motivation.” Manjrekar believes this decision was a mistake, arguing that the duo would have benefited from the match practice.
“The big learning for the selectors from this home season is that do not rest the already well-rested players because of their stature,” Manjrekar wrote on social media. “I say this again, both Rohit & Virat would only have benefited from playing the Duleep Trophy start of the season.”
The Indian team’s middle-order fragility, Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, and Gautam Gambhir’s insistence on turning tracks have also been identified as potential reasons for the series loss. However, Manjrekar’s comments highlight the importance of match readiness, especially for senior players.
Kohli and Sharma will have a significant responsibility when India travels to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, particularly in the absence of experienced batsmen like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Some experts believe that this could be the last Test series at home for Kohli, Rohit, and the spin duo of R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.
The Indian team must address these issues and find a way to regain their form if they want to avoid a similar fate in Australia. The Duleep Trophy could provide an opportunity for players to prove their worth and earn a place in the Test squad.
