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Amid the widespread criticism of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for their underwhelming performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has come to their defense. The Indian team suffered a 1-3 series defeat in Australia, with both batting stalwarts failing to deliver on expectations.
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Kohli and Rohit’s Struggles in BGT 2024-25
Virat Kohli managed a lone century in the series opener in Perth but struggled with inconsistency, falling to deliveries outside the off-stump repeatedly across eight innings. Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, endured a particularly rough patch, averaging just over six runs and eventually opting out of the final Test in Sydney.
Yuvraj’s Defense of Kohli and Rohit
Yuvraj Singh, who has been an integral part of India’s cricketing successes in the past, urged fans and critics to acknowledge the illustrious careers of Kohli and Rohit before passing judgment.
“We are talking about our greats, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and we are saying very bad things about them,” Yuvraj said in an interaction with PTI.
“People forget what they have achieved in the past. They are one of the greatest cricketers of this time. Okay, they lost; they did not play good cricket. They are getting hurt more than us.”
India’s World Test Championship (WTC) Hopes Dashed
India, having reached the finals in the last two WTC cycles, were strong contenders for the final again this year. They were well on track after a 2-0 home victory against Bangladesh but faltered in subsequent series.
A home whitewash against New Zealand (0-3) was the turning point, with the Indian team slipping out of contention for the WTC 2025 final. South Africa seized the opportunity and secured their maiden final appearance, setting up a clash with Australia at Lord’s.
“Losing to New Zealand Was a Bigger Low” – Yuvraj
Yuvraj expressed that the loss to New Zealand at home was more disappointing than the BGT outcome.
“According to me, losing to New Zealand is more hurting. Because they are losing 3-0 at home. You know, that is not acceptable,” Yuvraj remarked.
“This (losing BGT) is still acceptable because you have won two times in Australia. And this time you lost. Australia has been a dominant side for the last so many years. That is my thought.”
Looking Ahead
While the Indian team faces criticism and introspection, the focus now shifts to rebuilding and strategizing for future tournaments. For Kohli and Rohit, who have been the backbone of Indian cricket, the road ahead will be about silencing doubters and proving their mettle once again.
As Yuvraj rightly pointed out, these players are still among the greatest of their generation, and their determination will be key to India’s resurgence on the world stage.
