Despite India’s commanding 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test at Chepauk, concerns linger regarding the performances of key players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja impressed during the series opener, the lackluster showing from stalwarts Kohli and Sharma has sparked criticism, especially regarding their absence from the Duleep Trophy.
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, speaking candidly on ESPNcricinfo, voiced his dissatisfaction with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), suggesting that the organization has been giving “special treatment” to players based on their reputation rather than performance needs. According to Manjrekar, the decision to not include Kohli and Rohit in the Duleep Trophy ahead of the Bangladesh Test series may have impacted their ability to find form in red-ball cricket.
“I’m not worried, but I’m sure somebody made a note of the fact that they would have been better off had they played some red-ball cricket,” Manjrekar explained. “There was the option of picking them in the Duleep Trophy. One has to be careful about treating certain players differently and do what’s best for Indian cricket and for the player.”
Manjrekar emphasized that while Kohli and Rohit have the skill and experience to bounce back in later matches, the special treatment afforded to certain players can ultimately hinder their own performance. He pointed out that this approach has been an issue in Indian cricket for years.
“They have the class and experience to make a comeback, but one must make a quiet note of the problem: certain players are given special treatment because of their status, which eventually hurts that player more than anyone else,” he added.
The debate over player management in Indian cricket continues to stir as critics question whether the BCCI’s decisions are in the best interest of the team and its long-term success.