New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has voiced serious concerns regarding Rohit Sharma's position in the Test lineup as he continues to struggle with form following India's 184-run loss in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Pathan indicated that Rohit’s presence in the playing XI is primarily due to his captaincy rather than his recent batting performances. This statement comes at a time when discussions about Rohit’s future in the longest format have intensified, especially after another series of disappointing scores in the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Rohit’s batting struggles have significantly contributed to India’s lackluster performance against Australia. Over five innings in the series, the 37-year-old has managed a mere 31 runs at an average of 6.20, which includes two ducks. This marks the second-lowest series average for a top-six batsman in the history of Test cricket for India in Australia.
His failure to capitalize on opportunities, alongside a lack of rhythm against Australia’s disciplined bowling lineup, has put Rohit under considerable scrutiny. On Day 5, he faced 40 balls but could only muster nine runs before being dismissed by Australian skipper Pat Cummins.
"A player who has accumulated around 20,000 runs—yet Rohit is struggling so much that it seems his form is not supporting him. The reality is that he is captain, and that's why he is still in the squad. If he weren’t the captain, he may not have made the playing XI. We could have seen a set team with K.L. Rahul, Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill. Truthfully, given his current struggles, he might not have a spot in the playing XI," stated Irfan Pathan during an interview with Star Sports.
Pathan emphasized that if it weren’t for Rohit’s captaincy, India might have fielded more in-form players like KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, or Shubman Gill at the top order.
"However, because he is the captain, and there’s a need to win the next match to equalize the series, he remains in the team. Yet, his form is alarming. Even before arriving here, he wasn’t scoring runs, and that trend continues. It’s disheartening to watch Rohit bat. I always look forward to seeing him, whether in Test or ODI cricket. But currently, he seems to be struggling, whether it’s his mindset or physical coordination," he added.
Rohit’s early 2024 form stood in stark contrast to his struggles in Australia. During the home series against England, he amassed 455 runs, raising hopes for a revival in his Test career. However, his performances have since declined sharply, with the current series marking a particularly bleak period.
The Boxing Day Test further highlighted Rohit’s vulnerabilities. Battling against Cummins and his team, Rohit displayed some determination at times but failed to make a significant impact. His longest stay in the series—a 40-ball innings yielding only nine runs—emphasized the difficulties he has faced throughout the tour.
Additionally, Rohit’s captaincy has faced criticism. The 184-run defeat in Melbourne extended India’s winless streak under his leadership to six Tests, including a 0-3 home whitewash against New Zealand in late 2024.
