Sun Jan 12 04:13:27 UTC 2025: ## Kohli and Rohit’s Future in Question After Australia Series Losses

**NEW DELHI** – The future of Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma is hanging in the balance following a string of disappointing performances. A crucial meeting between head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and BCCI officials on Saturday will determine whether the veteran batters will continue their international careers, particularly in the upcoming ODI Champions Trophy.

The back-to-back series defeats against New Zealand and Australia, coupled with dwindling batting averages, have placed both Kohli and Rohit under intense scrutiny. While the ODI Champions Trophy might offer a chance for redemption – a format where they both excel – their recent performances, especially in Tests against Australia, raise serious concerns. Kohli scored 190 runs at an average of 23.75, while Rohit managed just 31 runs at 6.2. Their Test future, particularly for the upcoming five-match series against England, is far from certain.

The meeting will also evaluate the overall performance of Gambhir’s coaching staff and their plan for managing the team’s transition phase.

Meanwhile, the selectors will separately meet to choose the squad for the Champions Trophy, beginning February 20th in the UAE. The fitness of key bowlers Jasprit Bumrah (recovering from back spasms) and Mohammed Shami (recovering from ankle surgery) will heavily influence the selection. Shami’s recent performances in domestic cricket suggest a likely return. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s strong recent performance is also expected to earn him a spot in either the Champions Trophy or the upcoming T20I and ODI series against England. The squad for the England series, starting January 22nd, is likely to feature many players from the recent South Africa tour. However, Bumrah and Akash Deep (also recovering from injury) will miss the white-ball leg.

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