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The stakes are high as India takes on Australia in the third Test at the Gabba, Brisbane, starting December 14. The focus is squarely on skipper Rohit Sharma, who faces mounting scrutiny after India’s crushing defeat in the second Test.
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A String of Defeats Raises Questions
India’s humiliating 10-wicket loss in Adelaide marked Rohit Sharma’s fourth consecutive defeat as Test captain, placing him uncomfortably close to an unwanted milestone. If India falters in Brisbane, Rohit will equal Sachin Tendulkar’s record of five consecutive Test losses as captain, the joint-second highest in India’s cricket history.
India’s form under Rohit has been concerning, especially following a rare 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand earlier this year. While India managed a victory in the first Test against Australia, it was under the leadership of Jasprit Bumrah, with Rohit absent due to personal reasons.
India’s Consecutive Losses Under Captains: The Grim List
The record for the most consecutive Test defeats as an Indian captain is held by Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, with six losses. Here’s a breakdown of the captains with the longest losing streaks:
- Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi – 6
- Sachin Tendulkar – 5
Datta Gaekwad – 5 - MS Dhoni – 4
Virat Kohli – 4
Rohit Sharma – 4
Sachin Tendulkar’s Unwanted Record
Tendulkar’s unfortunate streak occurred in 1999, starting with a 0-3 loss to Australia away and followed by a 0-2 defeat to South Africa at home. Now, 25 years later, Rohit finds himself on the verge of matching this unenviable record.
Turning the Tide at the Gabba
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy stands delicately balanced at 1-1, and the third Test at the Gabba is a must-win for Rohit—not just to avoid this ignominious record but also to keep India’s hopes alive for a World Test Championship (WTC) final berth. A victory here would not only halt the losing streak but also restore faith in India’s leadership under Rohit.
Will Rohit Sharma steer India to a much-needed win or find himself etched in the history books for an unflattering reason? All eyes will be on the Gabba come Saturday.
