The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly weighing a strategic shift in its approach to the senior men’s test cricket squad. This comes as the current team captained by Rohit Sharma faces criticism following a historic 0-3 whitewash by New Zealand on home soil. The outcome has raised concerns about the team’s capacity to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) for the 2023-25 cycle.
According to a report, an anonymous BCCI source has indicated that failing to qualify for the WTC final in England could prompt the board to reconsider the inclusion of senior players. If India does not make the cut for the third consecutive season, veteran stars may be excluded from the tour of England for the five-test series starting January 2025. The source further added that these players may have already played their last home test together.
The report also suggests that an informal discussion involving key BCCI members, Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take place. This meeting would aim to chart out a plan for transitioning the team’s core and integrating new talent. The shift would signal an effort to rejuvenate the squad with an eye on future competitiveness.
India’s path to securing a spot in the WTC final is challenging. The team must secure four wins and one draw from their upcoming five-Test series against Australia. This Border-Gavaskar series, which is set to kick off in Australia later this month, represents the last opportunity for the team to control their fate. Given their recent performances, including the loss to New Zealand, pressure has mounted on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and other senior players to deliver against a formidable Australian side.
The underperformance of India’s senior players, particularly Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, has drawn significant criticism from fans and cricket experts alike. This scrutiny only amplifies the stakes for the upcoming series, with the team needing to demonstrate resilience and tactical prowess to ensure they remain in contention for the championship.
The outcome of the series will not only impact India’s chances at WTC success but could also dictate the immediate future of some of the country’s most experienced cricket stars.
