Introduction: India’s Struggles in the BGT 2024-25
India lost to Australia in all areas in the BGT 2024-25. Now, the spotlight is on some senior players. After a series of poor performances, doubts hang over four Indian cricketing legends. These players have served Indian cricket well. But, their recent form suggests it may be time to step aside for the next generation.
Rohit Sharma: Time to Step Down
Rohit Sharma, who led India to a T20 World Cup win, has struggled in red-ball cricket since the Bangladesh Test series. At 37 years old, Sharma’s form as both a batter and captain has been underwhelming. In his last 13 Test innings, he has one fifty. His captaincy is now under scrutiny after losing four Tests in a row.
Both pace and spin have exposed Sharma’s red-ball batting technique. His struggles outside the off-stump are a particular weakness. His aggressive shot-making has failed in tough Test conditions. Age has slowed his reflexes. After a career spanning 66 matches with 4,289 runs at an average of 41+, it may be time for Sharma to retire gracefully.
Virat Kohli: Sunset on a Stellar Career?
At 36, Virat Kohli’s legacy as one of India’s greatest cricketers is undisputed. However, his recent struggles in Test cricket paint a concerning picture. Despite a century in the first Test at Perth, Kohli’s BGT form has been poor. He has just one fifty in his last 14 innings. His dismissal at The Gabba, where he chased a wide ball, drew sharp criticism from Sunil Gavaskar.
Kohli’s declining consistency at the pivotal No. 4 position has left India’s batting vulnerable. His limited-overs cricket skills are still great. But, his Test form suggests it’s time to retire from red-ball cricket and let new talents take over.
Ravichandran Ashwin: Paving the Way for Young Talent
Ravichandran Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket are undeniable. With 537 Test wickets, the 38-year-old off-spinner ranks among the game’s greats. Yet, his recent performances indicate a decline. His strike rate in the last four matches, 58 to 108, is below par for a top spinner. Also, he has struggled to dominate opposing batting lineups. This is a hallmark of India’s legendary spinners, like Anil Kumble.
Ashwin’s exclusion from key matches shows the team’s lack of faith in him in tough conditions. With all-rounders like Washington Sundar waiting, Ashwin may need to go after the series.
Ravindra Jadeja: The End of an Era?
Ravindra Jadeja has been an asset to Indian cricket. He has excelled with bat, ball, and in the field. However, the 36-year-old’s impact in the ongoing series has been minimal. At The Gabba, he conceded 95 runs without a wicket in the first innings. His gritty half-century was overshadowed by his struggles with the ball.
Jadeja’s recent 10-wicket haul against New Zealand was brilliant. But, leaving him out of the first two Tests in Australia shows a lack of faith in his skills in overseas conditions. Younger all-rounders like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar are pushing for a chance. So, Jadeja may retire on a high after this series.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 could mark the end of an era for some of India’s cricketing icons. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja have been key to Indian cricket. But their recent struggles suggest it may be time to pass the torch to a new generation. As India rebuilds for the future, these decisions will be key. They will shape the team’s long-term success.
