Former Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar has raised concerns about the lack of game time for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, as well as their extended break before the upcoming Bangladesh Test series, set to commence on September 18.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had requested all Indian internationals to participate in the four-day Duleep Trophy, coinciding with the start of the new domestic season. However, exceptions were made for Kohli, Rohit, and Jasprit Bumrah by BCCI secretary Jay Shah and the selection committee.
Gavaskar questioned the decision of Kohli and Rohit to skip the Duleep Trophy, which could have provided them with valuable match practice. He emphasized the importance of regular competition, especially for players in their mid-thirties like Kohli (35) and Rohit (37).
Sunil Gavaskar’s Comments on Kohli and Rohit’s Duleep Trophy Opt-Out
Gavaskar expressed his thoughts in his Mid-Day column, highlighting the potential impact of the two star players’ lack of match practice heading into the Bangladesh Test series. He noted that while workload management for Bumrah is understandable due to his susceptibility to back injuries, batters like Kohli and Rohit would benefit from on-field time.
Gavaskar emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards and form through regular competition, particularly as players age. With India set to face Bangladesh in two Test matches starting on September 19, the absence of Kohli and Rohit from the Duleep Trophy could pose challenges for their performance.
The Indian team’s upcoming Test series against Bangladesh holds significance in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, where India currently leads the points table. Gavaskar’s insights shed light on the importance of consistent match practice for players aiming to sustain peak performance levels.