India’s top Test batters, including skipper Rohit Sharma, had a disappointing outing in the second phase of the Ranji Trophy on Thursday, as all four prominent players failed to make an impact with the bat. The much-anticipated return of these stars to first-class cricket ended in frustration, with each managing only single-digit scores.
Mumbai’s captain and India’s Test skipper, Rohit Sharma, hoped to regain form following an abysmal Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) campaign in India, where he accumulated just 31 runs across five innings. However, his struggles persisted as he fell cheaply for 3 against Jammu & Kashmir. The early dismissal raised further concerns about his form ahead of upcoming international assignments and the Champions Trophy.
Joining Sharma in Mumbai’s lineup was left-handed opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Despite his impressive overseas exploits, Jaiswal failed to deliver on the domestic stage, managing just 4 runs before being trapped LBW by Auqib Nabi.
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, known for his unorthodox and aggressive style, endured a disappointing return for Delhi. Walking in at 84-3 against Saurashtra, Pant attempted to counter spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja but lasted only 10 deliveries.
Pant’s dismissal was a stark contrast to his heroics during the BGT, where he displayed resilience as arguably India’s most prized batter.
Shubman Gill, captaining Punjab in their clash against Kolkata, also faltered with the bat. The in-form top-order batter managed only 4 runs before being dismissed by medium-pacer Abhilash Shetty.
The Ranji Trophy continues to provide opportunities for redemption, but India’s top batters will need to recalibrate quickly to silence critics and prepare for future challenges on the international stage.