Harsha Bhogle’s stats reveal Kohli and Rohit’s troubling decline
Team India’s seasoned players faced another disappointing defeat as New Zealand spinners dominated in the second innings of the Wankhede Test. Chasing a target of 147 runs to win the third and final match of the series, India lost five wickets for just 29 runs. Expectations ran high for stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to lead the team to a consolation victory, but both succumbed to the challenging conditions posed by New Zealand’s spin attack.
Rohit was dismissed while attempting a big hit against Kiwi pacer Matt Henry, while Kohli fell victim to ‘local boy’ Ajaz Patel. Rohit’s reckless shot drew sharp criticism from commentator Harsha Bhogle, who expressed his confusion over the skipper’s decision-making. “Trying to get my head around Rohit Sharma’s approach. Struggling. That was a wicket on a platter and ends a disappointing home season for him with 133 in 10 innings,” Bhogle posted on X (formerly Twitter) following Rohit’s dismissal.
Kohli, who has only one fifty-plus score in this series, contributed just a single run from seven balls. Bhogle highlighted the struggles of both players throughout the home Test campaign, stating, “Kohli 192 in 10 innings. Rohit 133. It has been a forgettable home season for the big two.” Their poor performances significantly affected the team’s overall success.
India has seen little benefit from Kohli and Rohit’s contributions in this series. Their underwhelming show has been a crucial factor in the team’s first Test series loss at home since 2012. The lack of runs from these stalwarts places greater pressure on the rest of the team, making it essential for others to step up in future matches. As India reflects on this defeat, the cricket community eagerly awaits how Kohli and Rohit will respond to this disappointing chapter in their careers.
