IND vs NZ: Harsha Bhogle highlights Virat and Rohit's decline with striking stats
Xtra Time Web Desk: In another disappointing show from Team India’s top-order stalwarts, New Zealand's spinners once again ran through the Indian batting lineup in the second innings of the Wankhede Test. Chasing a modest 147 to win the third Test and salvage a consolation victory in the series, India crumbled, losing half their side for just 29 runs. Much was expected from veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, but both failed to deliver under pressure.
Rohit Sharma, who has been heavily criticized for his aggressive approach in the series, was dismissed attempting another big shot, this time against pacer Matt Henry. His rash shot drew criticism from commentator Harsha Bhogle, who expressed his confusion over Rohit's choice of shots. “Trying to get my head round 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).
Trying to get my head round 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.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 3, 2024
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Kohli 192 in 10 innings. Rohit 133. It has been a forgettable home season for the big two.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 3, 2024
Virat Kohli, meanwhile, was undone by left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel after managing just 1 run from 7 balls. Kohli’s dismal run in this series saw him register only one fifty-plus score. Bhogle didn’t hold back in pointing out the failures of India’s star duo, stating, “Kohli 192 in 10 innings. Rohit 133. It has been a forgettable home season for the big two.”
India’s reliance on Kohli and Rohit has been a key factor for their success in the past, but their underwhelming performance contributed significantly to India’s first home Test series loss since 2012.
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