Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are cricketing titans, but even legends can lose their edge. In a candid and hard-hitting assessment, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has issued a stark warning: the two icons have ‘fallen behind’ due to a critical lack of match practice .
Why Match Practice Matters More Than Ever
Pathan’s comments come on the heels of a disappointing performance by both batters in the opening ODI against Australia. He argues that in the hyper-competitive modern game, raw talent and past glories aren’t enough. Consistent, competitive cricket is the only true preparation.
“They have fallen behind,” Pathan bluntly stated, emphasizing that their recent struggles are a direct consequence of not playing enough domestic or first-class cricket to build a solid foundation before major international tours .
The Rishabh Pant Blueprint
In the same breath, Pathan held up Rishabh Pant as the gold standard for how a player should prepare for a comeback. After his serious car accident, Pant meticulously played domestic cricket for Delhi, then the IPL, and only then returned to the national side. This step-by-step process, Pathan insists, is the ‘correct procedure’ that every player, regardless of stature, must follow .
“Rohit has worked well on his fitness… but match practice is different,” Pathan explained, drawing a clear line between being physically ready and being match-ready .
Rohit & Kohli: A Tale of Two Struggles
Their recent outings have fueled Pathan’s concerns. In the Perth ODI, Kohli was dismissed for a duck, a performance that Pathan linked to the same issues the star faced during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia . Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma managed just eight runs off 14 balls before being dismissed, highlighting a visible lack of timing and rhythm .
What This Means for India’s Future
This isn’t just about one bad game. Pathan’s warning carries a long-term implication for Indian cricket. He has subtly questioned whether their current preparation methods are sustainable for their ultimate goal: the 2027 ODI World Cup. Without a commitment to regular competitive cricket, their dream of a grand farewell on the world stage could be in jeopardy .
The Path Forward: A Call for Process Over Pedigree
Pathan’s message is clear and, for some, uncomfortable: no player is above the process. Experience is invaluable, but it cannot replace the sharpness that only comes from facing live bowling in a competitive environment. His critique is not a personal attack but a plea for a more disciplined and professional approach to preparation from India’s senior stars.
As the series against Australia continues, all eyes will be on Rohit and Virat. Will they silence the critics with a vintage performance, or will Pathan’s blunt assessment prove to be a prophetic insight into a deeper problem?