Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have come under severe criticism for their flop show in the recently held Test series against New Zealand, which India lost 0-3 at home.
While Rohit managed to amass only 91 runs in six innings at an abysmal average of 15.17, Kohli returned with 93 runs at 15.50.
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy around the corner, the form of these two stalwarts has become a major concern. India would hope they return to scoring ways when the five-Test series gets underway on November 22 in Perth.
Meanwhile, legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev has backed the experienced duo to come good during the tour Down Under.
"Just apply yourself. Rohit and Virat have proved themselves over 15 years of cricket. They’re among the best. Sometimes, it’s about focusing a bit more. I’d just tell them to go out there, enjoy, and express themselves. Forget about this last series," Kapil told TOI in an exclusive chat.
India have won the last two Test series on Australian soil, while they have held onto the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy since March 2017. However, the situation is a lot different this time around as the Indian team will travel Down Under on the back of a first-ever 0-3 whitewash on home soil.
India lost the Test matches against New Zealand in Bengaluru, Pune and Mumbai. This outcome also marked the end of their remarkable streak of 18 consecutive home Test series victories.
"If you forget about this series, Indian cricket has been doing fairly well overall, and I wish them all the luck. When there’s an issue, it’s crucial to rectify it quickly. We’re proud of our spinners, our batsmen, and our bowlers. Good luck to them for the BGT," Kapil said.
"The rough patch has passed. Now, let’s focus on the positives, and I hope they play well. This is all I’d like to convey to Rohit’s team. Good luck, and best wishes to the Indian team," he added.
After the series opener in Perth, the action will shift to Adelaide (December 6-10), where both teams will face each other in a Day-Night Test. The last three Tests are set to take place in Brisbane (December 14-18), Melbourne (December 26-30), and Sydney (January 3-7).
(With TOI Inputs)
