'AUS Series Will Be Make or Break': Kohli, Rohit Under Pressure as Harbhajan Predicts Transition
The spotlight is firmly on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma following India's disappointing Test series loss to New Zealand, which ended a remarkable 12-year dominance at home. The duo's lackluster performance has raised concerns, leading many experts to question their place in the team.
Kohli and Rohit's Struggles
In the ongoing series against New Zealand, Kohli managed to score just 88 runs across two matches, including a duck and a half-century. His average of 22 marks his lowest against any team at home since the 2016-17 series against Australia, where he averaged a mere 9.2. Rohit’s performance has been even more troubling, with his average hovering below 15 in consecutive home Test series. After a disappointing showing against Bangladesh, where he averaged 13.50, he has managed just 62 runs against New Zealand, bringing his average to 15.50.
Given these struggles, Harbhajan indicated that the upcoming series against Australia will be critical. “This Australia series will be a make-or-break for many in the team,” he stated, emphasizing the high stakes as India looks to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final.
A Call for Transition
Kohli and Rohit are modern-day batting legends, similar to the iconic Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar. However, Harbhajan pointed out that the Indian team has historically adapted to changes, suggesting that replacements for these superstars are indeed possible. “Who says you can’t get replacements? You’ve had Gavaskar, Tendulkar, and now Kohli. The game moves on, and we will get replacements,” he argued.
The Talent Pool in Domestic Cricket
Harbhajan believes there is an abundance of talent in domestic cricket, citing examples of current stars like Kohli and Sharma emerging from these ranks. “It’s about getting the right opportunities at the right time. If you get the chance, you can become a match-winner,” he noted. He emphasized the importance of persistence, recalling how it took Kohli 15 years to reach his current status, and the need to identify players who can deliver in the long run.
As Kohli and Rohit prepare for the critical Australia series, the pressure is mounting. Their performances in the upcoming matches will be closely scrutinized, not only for their impact on the series but also for the future of Indian cricket. With discussions of potential transitions and the emergence of new talent, the time is ripe for introspection and adjustment as the team looks to rebuild and reclaim its dominance.
