Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Parthiv Patel Slams Indian Star Batters for Lack of Discipline in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Former India cricketer Parthiv Patel has openly criticized the Indian batting lineup for its underwhelming performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Despite the presence of stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill, the Indian top order has been unable to perform consistently, especially in recent matches in Adelaide and Brisbane.

Patel pointed out the lack of discipline in the Indian batsmen’s approach, attributing their recent collapses to a failure to adapt to the traditional style of Test cricket. While aggression has often been blamed, Patel argued that it is not extreme aggression but a lack of focus and application that is to blame for India’s struggles in red-ball cricket. He said:

There is no doubt that collapses have occurred, especially in home series. We have seen collapses in rank-turner pitches against New Zealand. When we toured Australia, the collapses continued there. I do not believe this has happened due to extreme aggression. If we respect the traditional style of Test cricket and bat with discipline, these are the same batters who have previously performed well. Indian batters need to apply themselves more because they have the ability. If they bat with discipline, they can succeed anywhere.

The struggles of key players like Kohli and Sharma have been particularly concerning. Kohli, who had a stellar knock in Perth, has since been troubled by deliveries outside the off stump, while Sharma’s form has been poor, especially since moving down to No. 6. Both are under immense pressure to deliver, with their recent records showing worrying signs.