The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is under fire for allegedly giving preferential treatment to star players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Critics argue that this favoritism is detrimental to Indian cricket and its development. Both players had disappointing performances in the recent Test match against Bangladesh, raising questions about their selection and preparation.
Disappointing Performance from Kohli and Rohit
In the opening Test against Bangladesh held in Chennai, Rohit Sharma managed to score just 11 runs, while Virat Kohli only amassed 21 runs. Their lack of runs in the match, which India won by 280 runs, has led to criticism of the BCCI’s decision-making. Unlike other players, Kohli and Rohit were not selected to participate in the Duleep Trophy, a crucial tournament that serves as a preparatory event for players. Critics argue that this special treatment has affected their readiness and performance in the Test series.
Special Treatment from BCCI
The BCCI, particularly the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar, faces accusations of giving special treatment to these established players. Critics highlight that while Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested since India’s T20 World Cup win, performed impressively upon his return, Kohli and Rohit struggled. Sanjay Manjrekar, a former Indian cricketer, emphasized that Kohli and Rohit would have benefited from playing in the Duleep Trophy. He believes that their absence from competitive cricket has hurt both the players and Indian cricket as a whole.
Consequences of Poor Form
Kohli’s recent statistics show a worrying trend. In 2024, he played four innings and scored only 81 runs, dropping his career average to a concerning low of 48.74. At home, Kohli has accumulated just 401 runs across seven Tests since 2022, with only one century. Additionally, in Asia, he has struggled, managing only 654 runs in 23 innings since 2021, at an average of 29.72. These numbers raise questions about whether BCCI’s decision to exempt him from the Duleep Trophy was in the best interest of the team.
Need for Fair Selection Practices
Manjrekar warns that the BCCI must be cautious about giving special treatment to certain players. He states that this practice can hurt not only the players but also the overall health of Indian cricket. He believes that Kohli and Rohit have the experience and talent to bounce back but that they should have had the opportunity to play in the Duleep Trophy to regain their form. A fair selection process that treats all players equally is essential for the growth and success of Indian cricket.
Conclusion
The criticism directed at the BCCI highlights ongoing concerns about player management and selection practices. While Kohli and Rohit are undoubtedly talented players, their recent performances suggest a need for better preparation and equal treatment among team members. As Indian cricket faces challenges, the BCCI must ensure that all players receive the opportunities they need to perform at their best. Moving forward, it will be crucial for the board to prioritize the team’s overall success over individual status to foster a stronger cricketing environment in India.
By addressing these issues, the BCCI can work towards restoring trust and enhancing the performance of the Indian cricket team in future competitions.
