The former India coach emphasizes the need for Kohli and Rohit to rediscover their form and mentor the next generation of Indian cricketers.
Sydney [Australia], January 8: Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has weighed in on the struggles of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma during India’s disappointing 1-3 defeat to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Shastri highlighted the importance of mindset, experience, and playing domestic cricket as key factors in reviving their Test careers.
Shastri on Kohli’s Mindset and Struggles
Virat Kohli, who scored 190 runs in five Tests at an average of 23.75, including a solitary unbeaten century in Perth, struggled with deliveries outside the off-stump—a recurring technical flaw.
Speaking on The ICC Review, Shastri drew parallels between Kohli’s current phase and Sachin Tendulkar’s and Ricky Ponting’s final years in cricket.
“Virat still has a lot to offer. Players like him have a role in guiding youngsters, sharing knowledge, and mentoring the next generation. But there comes a point where your mind will tell you when it’s time to step away,” Shastri said.
He also compared Kohli’s situation with Brian Lara, noting that Lara played with freedom and didn’t overthink failure, which helped him enjoy his game until the end of his career.
“The only guy who played with pure freedom till the end was Brian Lara. He never thought about survival; he always thought about scoring runs,” Shastri remarked.
Shastri on Rohit Sharma’s Struggles
Indian Test skipper Rohit Sharma endured an abysmal series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings at an average of 6.2. Shastri suggested that both Rohit and Kohli could benefit immensely from participating in domestic cricket.
“If there’s a gap, they should play domestic cricket. It will not only help them stay in touch with the current generation but also sharpen their skills, especially against spin on turning tracks,” Shastri explained.
Mentorship for Emerging Talents
Shastri emphasized Kohli’s role in mentoring young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Nitish Reddy, and Rishabh Pant.
“These players are the future of Indian cricket. Having someone like Virat Kohli in the dressing room is invaluable. His experience and insights can play a crucial role in shaping their careers,” Shastri said.
The Road Ahead for Kohli and Rohit
Shastri left the decision regarding their Test futures to Kohli and Rohit, stressing that hunger and passion would ultimately determine their longevity in the format.
“When you’re in your mid-to-late 30s, it all comes down to hunger and desire. Both of them know their mental and physical state best. Their future depends on how badly they want to continue performing at the highest level,” he concluded.
Key Takeaways
- Mindset Reset: Kohli and Rohit need to overcome mental barriers and approach their game with clarity.
- Domestic Cricket Revival: Shastri emphasized the importance of playing domestic cricket to regain rhythm and adapt to turning tracks.
- Mentorship Role: Kohli’s experience is invaluable in mentoring young Indian cricketers.
- Self-Reflection: Their hunger and desire to continue will decide their Test careers.
As India prepares for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the spotlight remains on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to overcome their recent struggles and lead India to future successes.
