Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: The Unfolding Decline of Test Cricket's Premier Duo

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of the most celebrated modern-day icons of Indian cricket, have been pillars of the team’s success across all formats. However, regarding red-ball cricket, both have seen a noticeable dip in form in recent times. While their contributions to India's Test cricket legacy are undeniable, their recent performances have raised questions about their consistency and future. Once the dominant figures in the longest format, both Kohli and Rohit have been grappling with a period of relative struggle, leading to growing concerns about their place in the team moving forward. In this analysis, we delve into the factors behind their recent slump in Test cricket and explore the future of these two legendary batters.

Decline in Form

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have experienced a significant decline in their form during the recently concluded series against New Zealand. This downturn began during the Bangladesh tour, where, despite India winning the series, both top batters failed to make meaningful contributions. Their noticeable decline in technique is a concerning trend. A brief absence from domestic cricket has contributed to their struggles, making it difficult for them to effectively tackle bowlers.

As age begins to catch up with them and after they retire from the T20 format following the World Cup victory, both players are now focusing on the World Test Championship (WTC) finals at Lord's, which may be their last opportunity in this format. Up until the New Zealand series, things seemed to be going smoothly for them. However, after suffering a disappointing 3-0 defeat, India finds itself in an unfamiliar position regarding its chances of reaching the finals. 

Currently, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's last significant performances were during the (Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series. If they can regain their form, there is a possibility they could continue playing if India qualifies for the WTC final.

Virat Kohli And Rohit Sharma In Last 10 Innings

Technical Woes

Both batters are known for their technical strength and their variety of shots. Recently, Test cricket has evolved into a faster-paced game, particularly since the beginning of the Bazball era, which has seen a more aggressive approach in the final three balls of each over. In the past, teams would often score only 2-3 runs per over, but in modern cricket, it is much easier to score 4-5 runs per over, with most batters in the longer formats adapting to this style.

Rohit Sharma has struggled the most with this evolution. In his attempt to adapt to the faster-paced game, he seems to have lost his core technique, ultimately resulting in fewer runs than expected. His innings of 23 runs off 11 balls against Bangladesh attracted a lot of attention. The aggressive intent he brought to that two-day match was notable, but it also created vulnerabilities. When he manages to clear the boundary with a six, he gains momentum and tends to maintain that aggressive approach, which bowlers have exploited to trap him. For example, in the third Test against New Zealand during the second innings, he initially scored two boundaries by playing aerial shots, but on the third attempt, he was trapped and dismissed. This recurring issue has affected his performance over time. If he returns to his basics and plays his natural game, he may regain his touch during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

Virat Kohli, on the other hand, has struggled against spin, particularly left-arm spinners. Although Virat is known for turning his weaknesses into strengths, he has been troubled by wicket-taking deliveries for quite some time—especially in turning conditions and overcast weather. In this series, he was dismissed by spinners three times in six innings, with his defense breached more than once. Unfortunately, he was also run out twice at crucial moments in the game. Virat is at a critical juncture in his career, trying everything he can but not achieving the desired results. With only two Test centuries since 2020, he needs to regain his prime form for one last time during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) to prove to the world that he still has it.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Stats in Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia

Experts have suggested that both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should play a Ranji Trophy match before embarking on India’s upcoming tour to Australia. The reasoning behind this advice is to help them regain their sharpness and return to their familiar approach in Test cricket. Australian pitches are known for their pace and bounce, and if Kohli and Rohit can rediscover their best form, they could once again play pivotal roles in leading India to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This could potentially be their final appearance in the prestigious series, making it all the more crucial for them to regain peak performance levels and end their Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) careers on a high note.