The Border-Gavaskar Test series between India and Australia, starting Friday in Perth, is set to showcase the best teams in red-ball cricket. Over the past decade, this rivalry has produced compelling contests, firmly establishing itself as one of the most intense in the sport. India has dominated the last four editions, including two historic series wins on Australian soil. However, recent setbacks, such as a surprising whitewash against New Zealand, have raised concerns about the form and future of some of India’s biggest stars.
The spotlight in this series is firmly on veterans Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja. These players have been instrumental in India’s success across formats for over a decade. However, with advancing age and fluctuating form, their ability to continue performing at the highest level is being questioned. Their performances in this series could determine not only their careers but also the direction of Indian cricket.
Rohit Sharma: The Sublime Yet Inconsistent Performer
Rohit Sharma’s prowess in white-ball cricket often overshadows his contributions to Test cricket. As a late bloomer in the longer format, Sharma has showcased his ability to be both destructive and elegant, adapting to the situation as required. After starting his Test career with centuries in his first two matches, he struggled to cement his place until being promoted to the opener’s slot. Since then, he has been a vital asset for India in Tests.
Despite his undeniable talent, Sharma has faced criticism for inconsistency. While his rhythm often leads to match-winning performances, his inability to sustain that form has been a concern. His recent outings against Bangladesh and New Zealand highlight this issue, with neither Sharma nor Kohli managing 200 runs in their last 10 innings each. While Sharma’s class is unquestionable, questions about whether he has peaked are becoming louder.
Virat Kohli: A Shadow of His Former Self
Virat Kohli’s struggles in recent years have been one of the most discussed topics in cricket. Once the poster boy of Indian cricket, Kohli’s dominance in Test cricket has significantly waned. In the last five years, he has managed to add just two centuries to his tally of 27, a stark contrast to his earlier prolific run. His batting average, once a robust 50-plus, has now dipped below 48. These numbers have cast doubts on whether he can ever return to his peak form.
Australia, a place where Kohli has historically thrived, has often brought out the best in him. His first Test century in Adelaide in 2011 and his remarkable performances during the 2014-15 series showcased his potential to dominate against the best. Kohli’s fiery aggression earned him admiration from Australian fans, and his leadership during India’s first Test series win in Australia in 2018-19 cemented his legacy.
However, Kohli’s recent lack of form raises questions about his ability to replicate those past heroics. With this series, Kohli has the opportunity to silence his critics and prove that he still has the hunger to succeed at the highest level.
Ashwin and Jadeja: The Spin Duo Under Scrutiny
Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been pillars of India’s success in Test cricket. Both are world-class all-rounders who bring depth to the team with their bowling, batting, and fielding. Ashwin, with over 500 Test wickets, and Jadeja, recently crossing the 300-wicket mark, have often been India’s trump cards, particularly in home conditions.
Ashwin’s ability to experiment and surprise batsmen has made him a potent force, even against strong opposition. In the 2020-21 series, he had Australian stalwarts Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne struggling against his craft. Jadeja, on the other hand, is known for his control and precision. On deteriorating pitches, he can be both economical and lethal. His batting and athletic fielding further enhance his value to the team.
However, both spinners have faced criticism for their recent performances. Against New Zealand at home, Ashwin managed nine wickets at a strike rate of 66.33, while Jadeja took 16 wickets at 37.93. These modest returns allowed the Kiwi spinners to outshine them, contributing to India’s first home series loss after 18 consecutive Test wins.
What Lies Ahead for the Veterans?
As they approach the twilight of their careers, Sharma, Kohli, Ashwin, and Jadeja are under immense pressure to deliver in this high-profile series. Their recent struggles have amplified calls for a transition in Indian cricket, with a new generation of talented players waiting in the wings. However, writing off players of such caliber based on a few poor performances would be premature. Their experience, skill, and determination could still prove invaluable in turning the tide.
Sharma’s leadership, Kohli’s hunger for redemption, Ashwin’s strategic brilliance, and Jadeja’s all-around capabilities make them vital to India’s chances. A strong showing in this series could rejuvenate their careers and reinforce their status as match-winners. On the other hand, failure might lead to louder calls for change, potentially ending an era of Indian cricket dominated by these stalwarts.
The Stakes for Indian Cricket
This Border-Gavaskar series is not just about continuing India’s dominance over Australia. It is also a litmus test for the team’s veterans to prove their mettle against one of the strongest sides in the world. Success here could serve as a springboard for a resurgence, ensuring their place in the team for future challenges. Conversely, a poor outing might signal the need for a broader transition, paving the way for the next generation of Indian cricketers.
Ultimately, this series is an opportunity for Sharma, Kohli, Ashwin, and Jadeja to remind the cricketing world of their greatness. Their performances will not only shape the outcome of this series but also influence the direction of Indian cricket in the years to come. Whether they rise to the occasion or falter under pressure remains to be seen.
