Could Kohli or Rohit Have Altered the Series Outcome?

New Delhi, Aug 4 (NationPress) Former England cricketer David Lloyd asserts that the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has significantly affected India's performance during the ongoing Test series in England.

As the fifth Test at The Oval approaches its conclusion on Monday, with England requiring 35 runs and India seeking four wickets, Lloyd opined that India's chances might have been improved had these experienced players been present.

“India has shown remarkable skill throughout the series, but they have missed out on critical moments. If either Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli were in the lineup, the result could have been different,” Lloyd expressed in his column for the Daily Mail.

“Certain players have a knack for identifying pivotal moments and act proactively rather than reactively. Ben Stokes exemplifies this. India will be pondering how they could end up losing this series 3-1.”

Trailing 1-2 and defending a target of 374 in the final innings, India had England wobbling at 337/6 by the end of Day 4. What initially seemed like a straightforward chase at 301/3 turned tense as quick wickets fell, including those of centurions Harry Brook and Joe Root. This resurgence offered India a sliver of hope, but poor light and rain curtailed play, setting the stage for a decisive finale on Day 5.

Lloyd recognized the shift in momentum and noted that the weather had favored England at a crucial moment. “The break came at an ideal time for England because India was aggressively pushing, and suddenly, the scoreboard halted. India must stay focused as the ball is swinging. Moreover, the new ball is about to arrive in a few overs. Will India seize it? What drama, what theater,” he remarked.

While India transitions in leadership with Shubman Gill captaining a team without Kohli and Rohit, England faces its own dilemmas, particularly surrounding Ollie Pope’s performance. After scoring a century in the first Test at Headingley, Pope has struggled, amassing just 200 runs in the last four matches.

“The reality is that Ollie Pope’s position in the team is precarious. Excluding runs against Ireland and Zimbabwe, his contribution has been modest. His average in the fourth innings of a Test is 16.7, which is inadequate for a number three,” Lloyd highlighted.

In contrast, Harry Brook’s pivotal 111 under pressure has not only secured his place but has also ignited discussions about a potential leadership role.

“Michael Vaughan mentioned he would favor Harry Brook as vice-captain, and I concur. Brook is secure in this team and exhibits leadership qualities. He would naturally thrive under Stokes’ guidance,” Lloyd concluded.