Melbourne Nightmare for Indian Stars: Are Kohli and Rohit Nearing the End of Their Test Careers?
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) witnessed a tough Day 5 for Indian cricket as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of India’s biggest cricketing icons, faltered in crucial moments. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) still up for grabs, questions about their Test futures are louder than ever. Could this series mark the end of their illustrious red-ball careers?
Jim Maxwell’s Take: A Somber Reflection
Veteran ABC radio commentator Jim Maxwell, known for his sharp cricketing insights, reflected on the duo’s struggles. “It’s not about saying, ‘I told you so,’ but this is a moment of sadness. Kohli hasn’t displayed the mental discipline we’ve come to expect, and Rohit seems past his prime,” Maxwell shared, his voice tinged with melancholy.
He added, “Kohli’s performances in this series haven’t matched his past brilliance. As for Rohit, Australians have never really seen his best in Tests, and now it feels like we never will.”
Rohit Sharma’s Flicker of Promise
Starting Day 5 on a positive note, Rohit showed glimpses of his old self. Footwork returned, albeit subtly, as he defended deliveries with precision and drove confidently. However, his innings came to an abrupt end in the 11th over. Tempted by a full delivery from Pat Cummins, Rohit’s attempt at a whippy flick ended with an edge to gully.
For fans, it was a bittersweet reminder of what could have been. “He looked serene, even reminiscent of his better days,” noted Maxwell.
Virat Kohli’s Lack of Discipline
When Kohli walked out to bat amidst contrasting boos and cheers, the stage seemed set for another heroic knock. But Mitchell Starc’s sucker ball well outside off lured Kohli into a booming drive—a fatal error that saw him nick off just before lunch.
Maxwell’s critique was sharp but fair: “That mental discipline, once his hallmark, seems to have deserted him. The mind knows, the brain is aware, but something snaps. And he chases, to his detriment.”
What Lies Ahead for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?
With the ICC Champions Trophy just 50 days away, the cricketing world is abuzz with speculation. Will Rohit and Kohli announce their Test retirements after the Sydney Test, or could something more dramatic unfold?
The recent mid-series retirement of R. Ashwin has already set a precedent. Rohit, once touted as a potential Test stalwart, and Kohli, regarded as one of the greatest Test players of this era, now face the ultimate question: how and when to exit the stage?
Conclusion: The Final Chapter?
As the curtain begins to fall, fans and pundits alike are left pondering: will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play one last Test at Sydney to fight for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, or is the end closer than anyone expected?