This story captures the stark contrast between India’s Test dominance under Virat Kohli and the uncertain, inconsistent phase the team is facing today. In 2019, even Faf du Plessis admitted, “You’re under pressure” — a statement that perfectly summed up how intimidating India had become in world cricket.
Back then, India’s supremacy was unquestionable. Even lower-order players like Jayant Yadav scored centuries, and home victories felt almost routine. But the current situation is troubling. After the 2024 New Zealand series, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were easy targets for criticism, yet the spotlight has now shifted elsewhere.
Is Gautam Gambhir solely responsible? Not entirely. Some of his decisions, such as backing Washington Sundar — who scored in all three innings — proved to be correct. However, choices like replacing Axar Patel with Nitish Reddy have raised valid questions.
Ultimately, though, the coach cannot compensate for a non-performing batting unit. Rahul, Sudarshan, Jadeja, and Rishabh Pant must also share responsibility for India’s Test struggles.
