The Indian cricket fraternity is abuzz with speculation following explosive claims by former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary regarding Virat Kohli's departure from Test cricket and the potential fallout for Rohit Sharma. Tiwary suggests that Kohli's decision to retire from Test cricket wasn't solely based on performance but stemmed from feeling "unwanted" and a lack of respect within the team setup. He argues that Kohli, a player of immense "self-respect and dignity," would not continue in an environment where he felt undervalued.
Kohli's exit from Test captaincy in January 2022, after leading the team for seven years and achieving unprecedented success, had already raised eyebrows. While Kohli cited the need for a halt at some stage and his inability to give "120 percent" as reasons for stepping down, Tiwary's statements add a new layer to the narrative. Kohli himself acknowledged the "ups and downs" of his tenure but maintained that there was never a lack of effort or belief. He also thanked MS Dhoni for believing in his captaincy abilities. He led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them.
Tiwary didn't stop there; he extended his concerns to Rohit Sharma, suggesting that the recent change in ODI captaincy, with Shubman Gill taking over, could lead to a similar decision from the veteran opener. He believes that Rohit's removal as ODI captain, despite his achievements, could push him to make a tough call after the upcoming Australia series. "And if things continue the same way, I honestly think there's a possibility that Rohit might also take that step in the future, not because he wants to, but because no great player should be made to stay where he feels disrespected," Tiwary stated.
Rohit Sharma assumed the Test captaincy in February 2022, succeeding Virat Kohli. While his captaincy record has been solid, with a win ratio of 60% in 20 Test matches as of October 2024, according to Cricfit, the recent decision to replace him as ODI captain has fueled speculation about his future in the team. Rohit led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy victories. He also steered the team to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Adding fuel to the fire, Tiwary has also accused current head coach Gautam Gambhir of creating a "toxic" environment within the team, leading to the alleged disrespect towards senior players. Tiwary claims that Gambhir's appointment has brought about a negative change in the team's atmosphere and culture. He suggests that senior players like Ashwin, Rohit, and Kohli, with their vast experience, might question decisions, leading to a situation where the team management prefers to avoid their presence.
These claims come at a time when Indian cricket is undergoing a transitional phase, with Shubman Gill being groomed as the future leader across formats. The decision to appoint Gill as ODI captain has been widely debated, with many believing it signals the beginning of the end for Rohit Sharma's reign. At 38, Rohit's future hinges on his performance, especially if he harbors ambitions of playing in the 2027 World Cup.
While neither Kohli nor Sharma has publicly addressed these specific concerns, the timing of Tiwary's statements, ahead of India's tour of Australia, has undoubtedly stirred the pot and raised questions about the inner workings of the Indian cricket team.
