The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly contemplating strict measures, including salary reductions for senior players, following India’s disappointing 3-1 loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The defeat not only ended India’s decade-long dominance of the series but also dashed their hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
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India’s Struggles in Australia
India entered the BGT under immense pressure, having been whitewashed 3-0 at home by New Zealand. Despite a promising start with a comprehensive victory in Perth, the team faltered in subsequent matches, losing at Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. Australia’s 3-1 triumph secured the BGT and knocked India out of the WTC final race.
While Jasprit Bumrah delivered standout performances, the rest of the team, including stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, failed to rise to the occasion. Their collective underperformance has sparked debates about their form and commitment, with some even questioning their future in Test cricket.
BCCI Plans Performance-Based Pay Structure
In an emergency review meeting involving head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and senior officials, the BCCI discussed the team’s dismal performance. According to Express Sports, a proposal has been made to implement a performance-based variable pay structure.
The system aims to hold players accountable for their performances, rewarding consistent contributions while imposing pay cuts for subpar showings. This move is expected to ensure that players remain motivated and focused, especially in high-stakes series.
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Kohli and Rohit Under the Spotlight
Virat Kohli:
- Kohli’s Test tour of Australia was below expectations.
- Apart from a century in Perth, he failed to cross the 50-run mark in any other innings.
- Persistently troubled by deliveries outside the off-stump, Kohli’s lack of adaptability drew criticism from experts, who questioned his hunger to improve.
Rohit Sharma:
- Rohit missed the opening Test but returned for the second match, only to endure a horrendous run.
- Pat Cummins consistently outfoxed him, reducing Rohit to a shadow of his usual self.
- After disappointing performances in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Brisbane, Rohit opted to sit out the final Test.
What Lies Ahead
The BCCI’s proposed changes reflect a growing sentiment for accountability in Indian cricket. By tying salaries to performances, the board hopes to foster a culture of excellence and discipline.
For senior players like Kohli and Rohit, the pressure to deliver has never been greater. With the ODI World Cup and the next WTC cycle looming, their ability to bounce back will be crucial.
The introduction of a performance-based pay system could mark a turning point in Indian cricket, ensuring that every player, regardless of stature, is held to the highest standards.