Sourav Ganguly has expressed his dissatisfaction with the recent downturn in India's Test cricket performance, highlighting concerns regarding the team's form in red-ball matches following a disappointing season. Over the course of five months, India participated in 10 Test matches against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia, securing only three victories. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India achieved a 2-0 series win against Bangladesh; however, they faced an unexpected defeat at home, being whitewashed by New Zealand, and subsequently lost a 1-0 lead in Australia. After winning the first match in Perth, India ultimately lost the five-match series 1-3, resulting in the loss of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in a decade.

While Ganguly has been vocal in praising Rohit’s capabilities as a captain and batsman in limited-overs cricket, he has expressed concern regarding Rohit's performance in the longer format. Following a challenging tour of Australia that led to India's absence from the World Test Championship final, Ganguly has urged Rohit to reflect deeply as the team prepares for another demanding five-Test series in England commencing in June.

"What surprises me is his red-ball form over the past four to five years. A player of his caliber and talent should be performing at a much higher level. He needs to engage in serious reflection because we have five Tests against England ahead, which will be another tough series, similar to the one in Australia. The conditions will favor seam and swing. India requires him to excel in red-ball cricket, while in white-ball formats, he is undoubtedly one of the greatest," Ganguly remarked during the Trailblazers 3.0 event organized by RevSportz.

Rohit Sharma has to find a way, insists Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly emphasizes the need for Rohit Sharma to discover a solution. As a former captain who transformed Indian cricket, Ganguly desires to see a return of the same level of determination in the current Indian team, reminiscent of his own tenure and the successful period under Virat Kohli's leadership. With reports indicating that Rohit will retain his position as India's Test captain for the upcoming tour of England, it is clear that he is not ready to step away from the longer format of the game. Although Rohit has excelled in white-ball cricket, leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup last year and the Champions Trophy just recently, Ganguly urges him to address the challenges in Test cricket before it becomes too late.

"Leadership holds significant importance. I have consistently stated that Rohit Sharma is an exceptional captain. This is evident to me when he leads the Indian team. I have observed his captaincy with the Mumbai Indians, and having captained India in numerous matches, I can identify the qualities of a good leader," Ganguly remarked.

"I am not surprised by his success in white-ball formats. While I am uncertain about his future in Test cricket, if he is listening, he must embrace the responsibility of revitalizing the team's performance in red-ball cricket. Currently, India is struggling in this format, and it is crucial for them to improve and prepare effectively for the upcoming five-Test series in England. Rohit must find a way to motivate and guide this team."

Read Also: PM Modi Weighs In on Football's GOAT Debate: Messi, Ronaldo, Maradona, or Pelé?

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!