Monday, November 25
Rohit Sharma's performances and leadership have faced criticism after underwhelming Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, despite successes in limited-overs formats. His vulnerability to early swing and seam movement is a concern, highlighting the challenges ahead for India and Rohit before the upcoming Australia tour. As India's captain and a senior batsman, there's always pressure to perform and lead by example.
The BCCI plans to decide the future of senior India players following a 0-3 defeat by New Zealand, focusing on a structured phaseout before the next WTC cycle. Key decisions may be made after the upcoming Australia series, potentially marking the final Tests for some senior players.
Sachin Tendulkar reflects on India's unexpected 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand, emphasizing the need for introspection. He commends individual performances by Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, while praising New Zealand's consistency and strategy. Ajaz Patel's standout bowling performance played a pivotal role in India's losses, highlighted by his 11-wicket haul.
Ravichandran Ashwin's spectacular catch and strong bowling performance, alongside Ravindra Jadeja, revived India's hopes against New Zealand at Wankhede in a match dominated by spin. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant's crucial partnership steadied India's innings, showcasing aggressive and strategic batting, with both contributing vital scores in challenging conditions.
Rishabh Pant's dismissal during the Mumbai Test sparked controversy, as a questionable third umpire decision reversed the on-field not-out call. Pant's departure halted India's chase of 147 against New Zealand on a tricky Wankhede track, resulting in a 25-run defeat and a 3-0 series sweep for the Kiwis.
Reflecting on India's 0-3 Test series defeat to New Zealand, Harbhajan Singh criticized overly spin-friendly pitches. He admitted that while they aimed to challenge New Zealand, the plan backfired, benefiting New Zealand’s bowlers. Harbhajan stressed the need for balanced pitches for competitive cricket. Ajaz Patel’s pivotal 11-wicket haul contributed significantly to New Zealand's historic series win in India.
Rohit Sharma expressed profound disappointment after India lost 0-3 to New Zealand in the home Test series, marking a historical low. Sharma took responsibility for the team’s performance, highlighting inconsistent batting, especially in the first innings of the initial two Tests, as key factors for the defeat. The series exposed India's vulnerabilities against spin bowling.
India's dominant home run, led by veterans Kohli, Ashwin, Jadeja, and Rohit, ended with a 3-0 series loss to New Zealand. This defeat raises questions about the futures of these ageing stars, with their performances declining and the next home series scheduled for October 2025. The question of their Test future looms large, particularly for home matches.
India's WTC qualification hopes suffer after their home series loss to New Zealand, impacting their standings and PCT drop. They now need strong performances in upcoming matches, especially against Australia, while closely monitoring South Africa and Sri Lanka's series outcomes.
