In the aftermath of India’s recent cricketing setbacks, including a crushing defeat at the hands of South Africa in Centurion and the loss in the WTC Final 2023, the spotlight has turned sharply onto the team’s leadership dynamics. Notably, Rohit Sharma, the current Test captain, has faced significant criticism for his perceived inability to steer the team effectively during challenging moments. This scrutiny brings into focus the decision by Virat Kohli to step down from the captaincy after the South Africa tour in 2021.
Before delving into the critique by Subramaniam Badrinath, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant achievements during Virat Kohli’s tenure as the Test captain. Under Kohli’s leadership, India emerged as a formidable force in Test cricket, challenging and defeating the best teams on their home turfs. The Kohli era witnessed historic triumphs, including two Test series victories in Australia, twi Test match wins in South Africa, and a 2-1 in England, until the final match was postponed for a year due to COVID-19. India could have clinched that series then, but managed to lose the final test the next year when Kohli was not the captain.
Subramaniam Badrinath, a prominent cricket commentator, highlighted Kohli’s remarkable statistical achievements as the Test captain. With over 5000 runs at an impressive average of 52-plus, Kohli’s captaincy record stands as a testament to his prowess as both a batsman and a leader. In 68 Tests, he secured 40 wins and suffered 17 losses, solidifying his position among the cricketing greats. Badrinath emphasised Kohli’s pivotal role in the historic Australia series win, positioning him as one of the most successful Test captains after legends like Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting, and Steve Waugh.
Subramaniam Badrinath Wants Virat Kohli Back
Badrinath’s commentary raised an important question: Why is Virat Kohli not leading the Test team anymore? He asserted that Kohli is a superior Test batter compared to Rohit Sharma, the current captain. Badrinath contended that there is no comparison between the two players, citing Kohli’s prolific run-scoring record across diverse conditions. Furthermore, he questioned the decision to appoint a player with a less proven track record, particularly outside India, as the Test captain.
“Kohli has a great record as a Test leader. He has scored more than 5000 runs with an average of 52-plus as a captain. He has 40 wins and 17 losses in 68 Tests. He led us to a tremendous victory in the Australia series. He has the most wins as Test captain after Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh,” Subramaniam Badrinath said on his YouTube channel.
“Why is he not the captain of the Test team? I want to raise this valid question. He is a better Test batter. There is no comparison between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He is a big player, in terms of Test cricket. He has scored runs everywhere. Why is he not leading and a weaker playerâ€æ As far as I am concerned, a weaker player, who is not yet proven as an opener. He has been in and out. We can consider all that. But I think Rohit Sharma has not proven himself as an opener outside India. Why is he there?,” Badrinath added.
To comprehend the impact of Kohli’s captaincy, it is essential to recognize the unparalleled legacy he left behind. Kohli’s leadership was characterized by aggressive strategies, meticulous planning, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. His ability to inspire the team to historic victories in challenging overseas conditions solidified his reputation as one of India’s greatest Test captains.
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While acknowledging Rohit Sharma’s talent and potential, concerns have been raised about his effectiveness as a Test captain, particularly outside the subcontinent. Badrinath, echoing the sentiments of many fans, expressed reservations about Sharma’s credentials as an opener outside India. The argument revolves around Sharma’s inconsistency and lack of a proven track record in challenging conditions, a factor that did not escape the keen eyes of critics.
S Badrinath said, "Virat Kohli should be the Test captain of India. There is no comparison between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He is a big player, in terms of Test cricket. Rohit has not proven himself as an opener outside India. Why is he there?". pic.twitter.com/r6tYApBFvU
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 30, 2023
