Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's futures in doubt: Decisions likely to follow Border-Gavaskar Trophy results

MUMBAI: India has lost its first home Test series in over a decade, going down 3-0 to New Zealand. This disappointing outcome has cast a shadow over the coaching tenure of Gautam Gambhir, which began with high hopes but has yet to yield significant success.

The loss raises questions about the future of senior players in the team, including Test captain Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and seasoned spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. National media, including the ‘Times of India’, reports that the BCCI is contemplating decisive action, contrasting with their more gradual approach after the team failed in Australia and England under MS Dhoni's leadership.

Historically, after a series of losses, significant changes followed in the Indian squad, with key players like VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid retiring in 2012 and Sachin Tendulkar stepping away in 2013. Current speculation suggests that if India fails to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final, further changes could be imminent. The team must win four out of their next five Tests to enhance their chances of qualifying.

India, which previously led the World Test Championship standings, has slipped to second place following this recent series defeat. With an Australian Test series set to begin on November 10, the pressure is on the team to perform.

Washington Sundar is expected to step in for Ashwin, while Axar Patel may replace Jadeja shortly. Emerging talents, including Ruturaj Gaikwad, are poised to make their Test debuts and former New Zealand player Simon Doull has advocated for Sanju Samson to also be given a chance in the Test arena.