Will India’s Cricket Giants Survive the Axe? BCCI Eyes Phaseout After Australia Tour
The future of several senior players on India’s cricket team is under evaluation as the BCCI assesses recent performance setbacks and plans for a transition strategy ahead of the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. After a surprising 0-3 series loss at home to New Zealand, the upcoming tour of Australia could be pivotal for experienced players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin, each nearing the latter stages of their international careers.
Rohit Sharma, when asked about his future in the Test format, emphasized the importance of focusing on the immediate challenge rather than long-term planning. “The Australia series is very, very important for us. We’ll concentrate on that rather than what lies beyond,” he commented, indicating his intent to prioritize short-term goals.
In light of the team’s age profile, informal discussions about future team structure could take place between top BCCI officials, selectors’ chairman Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and Rohit Sharma. Given the team’s scheduled departure for Australia on November 10, any immediate changes are unlikely, especially as the squad for the series is already confirmed.
A senior BCCI official hinted that, should India not qualify for the WTC final in England, changes could be in store for the senior players, suggesting it may be the last time all four veterans play a Test match together on home soil. The BCCI is cautious about avoiding a repeat of the 2011 situation, where an aging lineup struggled, prompting a transition plan. Selectors Agarkar and Gambhir are expected to discuss the path forward with the senior players.
India’s path to the WTC final hinges on a strong performance in Australia, requiring a challenging 4-0 series victory to qualify without relying on other results. However, if India fails to qualify, the upcoming Test series in England from June 2024 may prompt selectors to invest in younger players like Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, who are seen as promising talents.
Washington Sundar’s rise as a versatile long-term option may prompt discussions on Ashwin’s role after the Australia series. Jadeja, known for his all-round capabilities, could continue in overseas conditions, while Axar Patel and Manav Suthar may offer alternatives in Indian settings.
In batting, Rohit Sharma has had fluctuating form, averaging 37.81 in home Tests with four centuries but also posting several low scores in recent innings. Kohli, too, has struggled at home, averaging 30.91 since 2021 with a single century. Former selectors have acknowledged the challenges of bouncing back after a tough home series.
As for future leadership, Jasprit Bumrah has been named vice-captain, but due to workload considerations, the board may look toward Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant as potential long-term captains in the Test format.
