Ravi Shastri’s Bold Advice to Kohli and Rohit: Return to Domestic Cricket

 

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of India's greatest cricketing icons, have hit a rough patch in their careers. Once unstoppable in the Test arena, both struggled throughout 2024, particularly against spin. Their lackluster performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have raised concerns about their future in Test cricket.

 

Former India coach Ravi Shastri believes the solution lies in revisiting their roots: domestic cricket. In a no-nonsense statement on the ICC Review, Shastri said, "If there's a gap, they should go back and play domestic cricket. It helps stay connected with the younger generation and allows them to share their experience."

 

Shastri emphasized how domestic matches can help them sharpen their skills against spin, a major challenge in recent years. "Domestic cricket offers more exposure to spin than international games. With India’s struggles on turning tracks, it's crucial for them to improve in this area," he added.

 

Interestingly, Rohit hasn’t played a domestic match since 2016, while Kohli has been absent from the circuit since 2012. Shastri believes that returning to these games could revive their form and rebuild confidence.

 

2024 wasn’t kind to either player. Rohit started strong but ended poorly, managing just 31 runs in five innings against Australia. Meanwhile, Kohli struggled with consistency, failing to make an impact throughout the year.