New BCCI Secretary Instructed to Phase Out Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Published at: January 9, 2025 5:47 AM

Updated at: January 10, 2025 7:44 AM

India’s recent loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, marking their sixth defeat in eight matches, has sparked discussions about the future of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. This issue is expected to dominate the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Special General Meeting on Sunday.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia is reportedly expected to instruct Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar to take bold steps toward rejuvenating the team, including possibly phasing out Kohli and Rohit. Both players were already under scrutiny before the Australian tour, seen as a critical test for their careers. Kohli showed brief form with a century in Perth but struggled in subsequent innings, while Rohit’s poor form continued, scoring only 31 runs in five innings.

Rohit’s overall performance in Test cricket since September has been concerning, averaging just over 10 runs in eight matches. With the ICC Champions Trophy approaching, the focus is shifting to the white-ball format. However, ongoing speculation about Kohli and Rohit’s futures has left the board appearing indecisive.

A former BCCI official stressed the need for strong leadership and bold decisions to rebuild the Test team. India’s next Test series in England provides time for the board to make crucial decisions, with the Champions Trophy squad announcement also playing a significant role.