Rohit Sharma’s recent series against New Zealand has cast a harsh spotlight on his role as a leader in the Test format, one in which his performance with the bat has faced intense scrutiny. India’s 0-3 series loss on home soil has left fans and critics alike disappointed, with Rohit bearing a significant share of the responsibility. His own admission at the press conference reflected his deep awareness of the situation, as he openly acknowledged this phase as a “low point” in his career. The Indian captain’s words mirrored his frustration, as he took ownership of the team’s struggles, emphasizing that he had not performed at the level expected of him as both a leader and a batsman.
In the Mumbai Test, Rohit’s dismissal was emblematic of a broader issue in India’s batting lineup, where he failed to provide the stability and resilience the team needed. His choice of an overly aggressive shot allowed New Zealand’s bowlers to capitalize on his early exit, triggering a collapse that underscored a vulnerability present throughout the series. Rohit’s role as the opener and captain came under severe criticism, as his dismissals were often the starting point for the team’s struggles against a relentless New Zealand bowling attack. This inconsistency has led to calls on social media for Rohit and even other veterans, like Virat Kohli, to consider stepping aside, sparking a heated debate over the future of senior players in India’s Test setup.
It wasn’t too long ago, however, that Rohit Sharma was the linchpin of India’s success, leading the team with remarkable clarity and aggression in white-ball cricket. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Rohit embraced his role as an attacking opener, putting up a stunning 597 runs with an average of 54.27 and an impressive strike rate of 125.94. His ability to adapt and lead by example played a crucial role in India’s journey through the tournament. In the T20 World Cup 2024, he again stepped up as a reliable leader, scoring 257 runs at a strike rate of 156.70, ultimately guiding India to their first T20 World Cup title in 17 years. In these formats, Rohit’s role was defined, his style suited the pace of the game, and he thrived under the pressure.
Now, in the Test arena, Rohit seems to be struggling with a lack of clarity, especially as his young partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, has taken on the aggressive role that Rohit typically embraces. Jaiswal’s performances, with over 1,000 runs at a strike rate of 76.74, have added pressure on Rohit to alter his natural game. Yet, he appears caught between adapting a conservative approach and retaining the attacking mindset that has worked so well in limited-overs cricket. The result has been a series of dismissals that lack coherence—sometimes too defensive, at other times recklessly aggressive, and ultimately leaving him vulnerable. Rohit’s stats in this series, averaging just 15.17 in six innings, highlight the depth of this struggle, which is especially frustrating given his proven ability in all formats of the game.
While many call for a shift, it’s important to note that Rohit remains one of India’s most accomplished Test batsmen, having scored more hundreds for the team than any other Indian player since the start of the World Test Championship cycles. His skill, experience, and ability to play under pressure are irreplaceable assets. Yet, he risks being overshadowed by younger, aggressive players like Jaiswal without a clear role that leverages these strengths. To remain effective, Rohit must adapt, perhaps taking on a more stabilizing role that balances his instinct to attack with the patience needed in Tests.
As India looks ahead to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Rohit’s role will be critical. Australia’s conditions demand experience, resilience, and a well-defined approach—qualities that past Indian captains, like Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, have demonstrated in achieving significant victories abroad. If India is to have any hope of making it to the World Test Championship Final, Rohit will need to rediscover his form, providing the stability and leadership that has characterized successful Indian teams in the past. His past performances show that he is more than capable of silencing critics, and fans are hopeful that he can channel the same energy that brought India success in the shorter formats.
For Rohit to truly re-establish himself in the Test side, he’ll need to embrace a sense of purpose, clarity, and adaptability that aligns with the evolving demands of the team. While the road ahead is challenging, Rohit’s track record and resilience suggest that he can find his place once again in the side. If he can reclaim his natural game, tempered by experience and a keen understanding of his role, there’s every reason to believe that Rohit Sharma can emerge stronger, reinvigorating both his career and India’s Test ambitions.
