Image: Ian Chappell criticized Virat Kohli's inconsistency and behavior / © India Today
After a poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, where Virat Kohli scored 190 runs over five Tests, including a century in the first match, Ian Chappell criticized the batter for his inconsistency. Chappell emphasized that while Kohli’s experience in England would be invaluable, he needs to focus on being more consistent and refrain from unnecessary antics, like the shoulder bump incident with Sam Konstas in the MCG Test.
Chappell warned that if Kohli were to retire, it would leave a significant gap for India, especially ahead of the upcoming England tour. He also highlighted concerns regarding Rohit Sharma’s form, suggesting that the team would face uncertainty in the opening position and captaincy if he continues to struggle. He said:
Kohli’s experience in the UK would be invaluable, and of the two problematic players, he’s the most likely to be resuscitated. However, his consistency needs to improve in addition to dispensing valuable advice to younger players. He also has to stop his senseless antics like shouldering Sam Konstas in the MCG Test. If Kohli does decide to retire from Test cricket, the loss of both him and Rohit would leave a huge gap in the line-up for a tough tour. For India the two big question marks are leading batters, and the selectors have tough decisions to make regarding Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The soon-to-be-38-year-old Rohit, facing a crammed five-Test series against England in a few months, is a doubtful quantity. Although India is extremely reluctant to part with star players, lately Rohit has struggled technically and his absence would provide uncertainty over the opening position and the captaincy.
In the midst of these concerns, Chappell proposed KL Rahul as a viable option for Test captaincy, pointing out his leadership potential, although the need for support remains critical for India’s success.