PUNE, India: India’s recent 2-0 Test series loss to New Zealand on home soil has sparked concerns about the future of veteran players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
The defeat marks India’s first home series loss in 12 years, ending their impressive streak of 18 consecutive bilateral home series victories since 2012. The loss was sealed after a 113-run defeat in Pune, with New Zealand dominating India’s batting lineup, led by the spin prowess of Mitchell Santner.
Indian media expressed disappointment, with the Indian Express likening New Zealand’s accomplishment to Sir Edmund Hillary’s historic Mount Everest ascent, noting the performance of Indian batting as “out of touch.” Rohit Sharma, while acknowledging the setback, downplayed the series outcome, saying India is “allowed one such performance in 12 years.” Still, the series loss has cast a spotlight on the diminishing returns of once-dominant players, especially as Kohli has struggled, registering only one half-century in five Tests this year.
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New Zealand’s resilience was underscored by strong performances from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, who effectively countered India’s spin attack. With an upcoming Test series in Australia, India’s selectors now face critical decisions to address these performance issues and adapt to evolving team dynamics.
