Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma have to 'convince' selectors for further chances, says former Indian cricketer

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The ongoing debate over the futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India's Test setup has intensified after their underwhelming performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes the duo must convince selectors of their worth to continue at the highest level. Speaking on Star Sports, Manjrekar pointed to technical flaws and confidence issues, particularly in Kohli's game, and urged both to consider playing county cricket to regain form and showcase their readiness for India's upcoming Test series in England.

Manjrekar highlighted Kohli's recent struggles outside the off-stump, despite a century in Perth, and Rohit's inability to make an impact in three Tests, culminating in his exclusion from the final match.

"Kohli, with the body of work he has had, his impact and tenacity, is giving his best," Manjrekar noted. "But clearly, there is a technical problem and now a problem of confidence as well." He added that while retirement is a personal decision, selectors must ultimately decide how long players can remain part of the team.

Rohit's recent form has been a concern, averaging just 10.33 in the series and 24.76 in 2024. Kohli, too, has been inconsistent, scoring 190 runs across five matches, with only two innings standing out. These performances have led to calls for a generational shift in the Indian lineup, as other players like Ravichandran Ashwin have chosen graceful exits.

Manjrekar stressed that Kohli and Rohit's futures hinge on their ability to adapt, particularly with England's challenging conditions on the horizon. "If the selectors want to back them, I would like to see both of them play county cricket and convince the people who will take the big call whether they are ready," he said.

As India prepares for its next Test assignment post-Champions Trophy, the onus lies on Kohli and Rohit to silence their critics and justify the selectors' faith. Fans and experts alike will closely monitor whether these stalwarts can rediscover their form or if Indian cricket is poised for a new chapter.