BCCI Must Prioritize Performance Over Reputation, Says Harbhajan Singh

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India's relatively unremarkable 2024/25 season concluded with the loss of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, marking the first time in a decade that they have been defeated in this prestigious series. This outcome follows a series of disappointing results, including an ODI series loss to Sri Lanka—the first since 1997—and a home whitewash by New Zealand. In light of these setbacks, former spinner Harbhajan Singh has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to dismantle the prevailing "superstar culture" within Indian cricket.

All these defeats have occurred since Gautam Gambhir assumed the role of head coach, succeeding Rahul Dravid, who concluded his tenure with a victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. "In the last six months, we have faced losses against Sri Lanka, suffered a series whitewash against New Zealand, and now experienced a 3-1 defeat in Australia. Everything was stable under Rahul Dravid; India won the World Cup, and all seemed well. What has changed so drastically?" Harbhajan Singh remarked on his YouTube channel.

A significant factor contributing to India's recent struggles in Test cricket has been the underwhelming performance of their top-order batsmen, particularly captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli. Rohit ultimately opted to exclude himself from the final Test against Australia. Harbhajan emphasized that selection for the Indian team should be based on current form rather than past accomplishments.

"Every player carries a reputation. If that is the criterion, then we might as well include Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, or other prominent match-winners from India's history. The BCCI and selectors need to take charge. India must move beyond the superstar mentality," he stated.

"Abhimanyu Easwaran was included in the tour but did not get a chance to play. He could become a valuable player for India if given the opportunity. The same applies to Sarfaraz. With the England tour approaching, the players who perform should be selected. Reputation should not dictate team selection," he added.

India's lacklustre performance following their victory in the T20 World Cup

India suffered a series of defeats against Australia, concluding with a score of 3-1, which accurately represents the overall dynamics of the matches. Although the visiting team challenged the hosts consistently, they found themselves trailing in nearly all encounters, with the exception of the opening match in Perth, which they secured by a margin of 295 runs.

This loss in the series follows a remarkable 3-0 sweep at home by New Zealand, marking the end of an impressive streak of 18 consecutive home series victories. Additionally, prior to this, India experienced a bilateral ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, a setback not encountered since 1997.

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