Border Gavaskar Trophy: Is it fair to criticise Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli?

India’s iconic all-rounder, Yuvraj Singh, has chosen not to criticize under-pressure head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and senior batter Virat Kohli following India’s disappointing performance in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Yuvraj, who has been a part of India’s illustrious ODI and T20 World Cup-winning teams, expressed that when a team faces setbacks, the past achievements of its members often get overshadowed. He emphasized that all players go through phases of poor form, and it is a part of the sport. Yuvraj, who knows the mental and emotional challenges of international cricket, acknowledged that the team’s performance, especially in the Test series against Australia, had been far below expectations, but he refrained from pointing fingers.

Yuvraj Singh comes in support of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

Instead, the former cricketer stressed that it was now up to the players, the head coach, and the chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, to evaluate the future direction of Indian cricket. Yuvraj believes that decisions regarding the future of these key players should be taken with careful thought and collaboration. His comments reflect a balanced view, understanding the pressures of international cricket while calling for a collective introspection to build a stronger Indian team going forward. Despite the current criticism, Yuvraj’s words suggest that every cricketer’s legacy is built on years of hard work and that one phase of failure should not erase their past successes.

"I look at what India has achieved in the last 5-6 years. They have achieved two back-to-back victories in Australia. I don't remember any team doing that. People are criticising Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli a lot, but people forget what they have achieved in the past. They are two of the greatest cricketers of this time. It's ok they lost, they are more hurt than us. I am sure India will bounce back," former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh in a recent interview. 

"Gautam Gambhir as coach, Ajit Agarkar as selector, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, they are the best minds in cricket right now. And they have to decide what the future of Indian cricket is. I am sure this will be discussed with BCCI, with Jay Shah and taken into consideration that what is the best way for India to move forward," he added. 

When asked about potential changes in the Indian dressing room following their series loss to New Zealand, failure to retain the Border Gavaskar Trophy, and missing out on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final, Yuvraj Singh responded with a calm and supportive approach. The 43-year-old, who played 40 Tests for India, chose not to dwell on the criticism surrounding the senior players, especially captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Instead of calling for sweeping changes, Yuvraj emphasized that he would stand by Rohit and Kohli, considering them as his "family" within the team.

Yuvraj pointed out that such setbacks are part of cricket and that it is important to support each other in challenging times. He made it clear that rather than criticizing the duo, who have been pivotal figures for India over the years, he would back them in their journey forward. This sentiment reflects Yuvraj’s belief in solidarity and loyalty within the team. Despite the struggles, his focus remains on fostering a positive environment for growth and recovery, rather than pointing fingers, as he trusts that the team can bounce back with the right mindset and effort.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s performances during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy were far below expectations. Rohit managed only 31 runs from five innings, while Kohli’s struggles were more pronounced as he averaged just over 23, getting caught behind the stumps eight times during the series. Their form has raised questions about their readiness and approach to Test cricket. Amid this, calls have been growing for both players to return to domestic cricket and work on their skills, especially in challenging conditions. It’s been suggested that spending time in domestic competitions could help them regain form and rectify technical issues before the upcoming international challenges.

With the next Test series scheduled in England starting in June, there is growing anticipation about the steps these two stalwarts will take. Will they heed the advice to return to domestic cricket and refine their techniques, or will they push forward, relying on their vast experience? Only time will tell, but how they approach the next few months could play a pivotal role in their future in Test cricket. Their performance in the English conditions will be crucial for both their careers and India’s success.

"First of all I am not in that position, I was a student of the game and still am a student of the game. Gambhir, Rohit and Virat have played more cricket than me. I can only give my opinion and my opinion is that when players are not performing, it is very easy to criticise them, but supporting them is very difficult. It is the media's job to criticize them and it is my job to support my friends and brothers. For me they are my family. Simple," Yuvraj concluded.