India vs Bangladesh: Is Virat, Rohit's form a concern for the Indian team?

India's captain, Rohit Sharma, had a challenging outing in the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, managing just six runs in the first innings and five in the second. Similarly, star batter Virat Kohli also struggled, scoring six in the first innings and 17 in the second. Kohli's first innings ended with a cover drive that edged to slips, while in the second innings, he fell to a spinner and opted not to challenge the on-field lbw decision, which might have saved him. Despite their lackluster performances in this match, former cricketer Aakash Chopra reassured fans that there is no reason to worry about the form of either player. He pointed out that Rohit has been in exceptional form, especially during the T20 World Cup 2024, where he played a crucial role in guiding the team. Chopra also noted Kohli's significant contribution in the tournament's final, emphasizing his ongoing importance to the team.

Chopra further highlighted Rohit’s impressive performances during the recent series against Sri Lanka, showcasing his ability to bounce back from difficult matches. With a strong track record and a history of delivering when it counts, both Rohit and Kohli are expected to regain their form and continue contributing to India's success as they move forward in their cricketing endeavors.

“I will say it's not a concern. It happens at times that runs aren't scored. Runs not getting scored could be a concern if it's a long patch. They played in the T20 World Cup final and both left at an amazing high. After that, you wish to take a little leave and rest. However, they were sent to Sri Lanka for the ODIs. Rohit Sharma looked very good. He didn't face any difficulties. Virat Kohli didn't score runs there and after that, there was no other cricket,” former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Aakash Chopra suggested that it might have been beneficial for both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to participate in the Duleep Trophy prior to the Test series against Bangladesh. He argued that playing in the tournament could have helped them get into the right rhythm, potentially leading to better performances in the Test match. Chopra emphasized that match practice is crucial for players, especially when transitioning from limited-overs formats to Test cricket. By competing in the Duleep Trophy, Kohli and Rohit could have fine-tuned their skills and regained the competitive edge necessary for a high-stakes series. He believes that the lack of recent match experience may have contributed to their struggles with the bat in Chennai.

Both players are renowned for their ability to perform under pressure, and a stint in the Duleep Trophy could have served as a valuable opportunity to build momentum. As they faced a tough Bangladesh bowling attack, the extra preparation might have made a significant difference in their performance levels. Chopra's insights highlight the importance of consistent gameplay for maintaining form, especially for established players like Kohli and Rohit. As the Indian team progresses through the series, fans will be eager to see how these star players adapt and bounce back from their recent challenges on the field.

“They didn't play in the Duleep Trophy and I know there was a question attached to your question, about whether not playing the Duleep Trophy became a cause for concern for them. Maybe it would have been better if they had played because there is no hesitation or shame in playing,” he added.