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The aftermath of India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 defeat to Australia has sparked intense debate, with former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan leading the charge against what he describes as a damaging “superstar culture” in Indian cricket. Pathan’s criticism, directed primarily at senior players like Virat Kohli, raises questions about team dynamics, preparation, and accountability in the national setup.
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The Superstar Culture Critique
Pathan’s primary argument revolves around the notion that Indian cricket has become overly reliant on star players, undermining the collective team ethos required for consistent success. Speaking on Star Sports, he noted:
“India doesn’t need a superstar culture. India needs team culture. Even legends like Sachin Tendulkar, who didn’t necessarily need it, played domestic cricket to stay prepared. Why hasn’t Virat Kohli done the same?”
Kohli’s Domestic Cricket Absence
Pathan singled out Kohli’s apparent reluctance to participate in domestic cricket as a key issue. The former Indian skipper, who last featured in a domestic match in 2012, has faced a significant dip in form, particularly in Tests.
- Key Statistics:
- Kohli averaged just 15 in the first innings during the 2024 Australia series.
- Over the last five years, his Test average has dipped below 30.
Pathan emphasized that the lack of match practice in domestic circuits could be a contributing factor to his struggles, contrasting Kohli’s approach with Tendulkar’s commitment to playing domestic games, even at the peak of his career.
Concerns About Team Performance
Pathan also raised concerns about whether Kohli’s recent performances justify his place in the team.
“It’s not about what Virat has done in the past; it’s about what he’s doing now. Does the Indian team deserve a senior player averaging 15-20? If so, why not give those opportunities to youngsters and prepare them for the future?”
While Pathan acknowledged Kohli’s historical contributions, he stressed that cricket is a performance-driven sport where current form outweighs past laurels.
A Call for Accountability
Pathan didn’t hold back in critiquing Kohli’s perceived arrogance and unwillingness to seek advice, even when struggling.
“You’re making the same mistake again and again. Legends like Sunil Gavaskar were there to offer guidance, but you didn’t approach them. Fixing technical flaws requires humility and hard work, which hasn’t been evident.”
Pathan underscored that Kohli’s attitude and lack of visible effort to address his technical flaws have further compounded the team’s woes.
A Roadmap for Change
Pathan’s critique isn’t just about Kohli but a broader call for systemic changes in Indian cricket.
- Rebuild Team Culture: Move away from the superstar mindset and focus on creating a cohesive, team-oriented environment.
- Prioritize Domestic Cricket: Encourage top players to participate in domestic matches to stay sharp and adapt to evolving challenges.
- Promote Youth Development: Give younger players more opportunities to ensure a strong core for the future.
- Emphasize Accountability: Selectors must prioritize performance and preparation over reputation.
