India’s 0-3 series loss to New Zealand at home has not gone unnoticed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The defeat, marked by a failure to chase 147 in the final Test at Wankhede Stadium, was India’s first home series whitewash in decades. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, struggled against New Zealand’s spin attack, with seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli unable to rise to the occasion.
Reports from PTI suggest that this series could mark the end of an era, as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja may have played their last home Test together. The future of these players will be re-evaluated after the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
Following the third Test, a discussion between head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar hinted at possible changes. According to a BCCI source, while immediate alterations are unlikely with the Australia series approaching, a review will take place. If India fails to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, these four senior players are unlikely to make the trip to the UK for the 2025 five-Test series against England.
India’s Challenging Path to WTC Final Qualification
With the series loss, India’s chances for the WTC final have diminished. To secure a spot without relying on other results, India must win the upcoming series against Australia by a 4-0 margin. If they fall short, the selection committee may shift focus to younger players, such as Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, for future Test tours.
In the spin department, Washington Sundar, who excelled against New Zealand, has positioned himself as a successor to Ashwin. Similarly, Axar Patel and Manav Suthar are emerging as possible replacements for Ravindra Jadeja.
Rohit Sharma’s recent form in home Tests is another point of concern. In his last 10 innings, he has recorded six scores below 10, affecting his overall average at home. Kohli’s form has also been under scrutiny, with a home average of 30.91 in his last 25 innings.
Former selectors have noted the challenge that awaits the team, especially in erasing self-doubt after such a setback. While Australian pitches are likely to be more conducive to batting, restoring confidence in the squad will be essential as they prepare for the crucial Border-Gavaskar series.