Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Face Backlash After India's Historic Test Series Loss to New Zealand
India's cricketing fraternity has been shaken after the team suffered a humiliating 3-0 clean sweep at home against New Zealand in the Test series. This unprecedented defeat has cast doubts on India's chances of making it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final, leading to sharp criticism directed at the players, team management, and the BCCI.
06 NOV
Sunil Joshi's Take on Player Responsibility
Former India cricketer and ex-BCCI selector Sunil Joshi has come forward to defend the BCCI, placing the onus squarely on the players. He emphasized that the blame for poor performances cannot always be shifted to the cricket board or selectors.
"The onus and responsibility lie more with the players than the BCCI or the selection committee," Joshi told The Times of India. He stressed the importance of personal initiative from players to participate in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy to stay match-ready for Tests.
Joshi further elaborated:
"You know that you are going to play three Test matches, either on turners or slow wickets. Transitioning from white-ball cricket to red-ball cricket requires preparation. Players need to take responsibility and say, 'I will go and play Ranji Trophy or Duleep Trophy'."
Home Loss Hits Harder
Joshi acknowledged that losing a series at home is far more challenging to accept than an overseas loss. He pointed out that domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy have historically played a vital role in preparing players for Test matches and should remain a priority.
"Back in the day, Test players participated in Ranji Trophy games and then moved on to Test matches. If we aim to win the WTC or be the number one Test team, playing well in India and preparing adequately through domestic cricket is essential," Joshi added.
Calls for Better Preparation
Critics have pointed to faulty preparation and the lack of domestic match practice as major reasons behind the debacle. The clean sweep marks a stark departure from India's reputation as a fortress for visiting teams, with the losses sparking conversations about prioritizing domestic cricket for form and readiness.
Way Forward
This series loss has not only jeopardized India’s WTC aspirations but also raised questions about the approach to Test cricket preparation in the modern era. As Sunil Joshi and others advocate for a return to the basics, the responsibility now lies with players and team management to find the balance between international commitments and domestic cricket.
The road ahead for the WTC final has become steeper, but with adequate introspection and corrective measures, India can still bounce back stronger.
