• Source:JND
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WTC Points Table: Star batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's recent struggles continued as India suffered an unprecendented 3-0 home Test series whitewash against New Zealand. The hosts’ batting faltered repeatedly, with disappointing performances in Bengaluru, Pune, and finally at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

 

Chasing a modest 147-run target on a tricky, turning pitch in Mumbai, India crumbled to 121 all out, unable to counter the spin threat posed by Ajaz Patel and Glenn Phillips. Although Rishabh Pant displayed resilience with a crucial 64, India's top order, including Rohit (11) and Kohli (1), failed to deliver in the deciding innings.

The poor form of both Sharma and Kohli has raised concerns, particularly as the senior batters are key to stabilizing India’s top order. Commenting on the game, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali compared their situation to that of Babar Azam, who faced similar struggles before being dropped from Pakistan’s Test squad.

"Babar ke baad, Rohit aur Virat ki bhi wohi situation ho gayi hai, form kharab (after Babar, Rohit and Virat find themselves in the same situation -- out of form)," said Basit.

"When Rohit missed two deliveries (on Sunday), struck on the pads and then on the lower abdomen, he stepped out to hit a four. This shows that his feet aren't moving, form is not good. Then he hit a four off a reverse-sweep," Basit analysed.

On the other hand, Rohit was dismissed by a fast bowler Matt Henry in both the innings of the third Test played on a pitch tailor-made for spinners.

Basit stated that both Rohit and Kohli need to play domestic cricket before boarding the flight to Australia for the five Tests of the Border Gavaskar Trophy.

"Virat Kohli, out of touch, not in form at all. He needs to play domestic (cricket) before flying to Australia; Rohit also. Test-match pratice can't be seen (in their batting)," said Basit.

The series begins in Perth on November 22.