"That Probably Cost Us The Series": Rohit Sharma's Blunt Admission After India's Series Defeat

India’s shocking 3-0 home series loss to New Zealand marked a historic low for the Indian cricket team, as they suffered their first-ever whitewash at home. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, shouldered much of the blame for the series defeat, particularly his decision to bat first after winning the toss in the opening Test in Bengaluru, which he believes set the tone for the entire series.

In his post-match interview, Rohit Sharma admitted, "I take complete responsibility, starting with the toss in Bengaluru and many tactical errors throughout the series. I have not been at my best and that probably cost us the series." His decision to bat first in overcast conditions, after Day 1 had been washed out, proved disastrous as India were bowled out for just 46 runs—their lowest-ever score at home.

From that point onwards, India found themselves constantly on the backfoot in all three Tests, with the batting unit, including Rohit, struggling for form. Rohit himself endured a tough time with the bat, managing only 91 runs in the three Tests, making him the lowest-scoring of India's regular top-order players. His recent poor run of form extends beyond this series, as he has accumulated only 133 runs in his last 10 innings against Bangladesh and New Zealand, at a meager average of 13.30.

Rohit’s leadership also faced scrutiny, as he became the first Indian captain since 1969 to lose four Tests at home. His candid admission of responsibility for the team's shortcomings comes in the face of mounting pressure, with the upcoming Test series in Australia adding more questions about his captaincy and form. There are concerns over his availability for the first Test in Perth due to personal reasons, which may further complicate his leadership status moving forward.